Two books I’ve read lately are stirring me from my complacency.

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream

Sun Stand Still: What Happens When You Dare to Ask God for the Impossible

The question is this: “What holds me back?”

In Mark 10 the wealthy man comes to Jesus to ask what he needs to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus ticks off some of the commandments. This is good for this man, and Jesus knows it. We’re good at lists. We’re good at ticking off some of the easy doctrines and the easy do’s and don’ts.

But Jesus goes to his heart:

 ²¹ Jesus looked at him carefully and loved him. He said, “You are lacking one thing. Go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor. Then you will have treasure in heaven. And come, follow me.” ²² But the man was dismayed at this statement and went away saddened, because he had many possessions. (Mark 10:21-22, CEB)

Jesus loved him. Because of that love he wanted what was best for this man.

Jesus looks at me and loves me. (Actually, he told me I’m his favorite.) 😉

But Jesus does look at me and love me. He wants his best for me. And that means he can see what is getting in the way.

For the wealthy man, it was his possessions. For others, there will be different things that Jesus will lovingly say to us, “Look, if you want to really follow, this is the baggage to leave behind…”

What holds you back?