Possessions or Perfection?
The rich young man reveals a sincere yet desperately inaccurate view of himself and his abilities. Jesus brings up perfection, then challenges him to sell all that he has and follow him.
Keep the Commandments
How beautiful that John's words point back to what Jesus says in Matthew’s gospel: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me...
Righteousness and other R words
The fault in the young man’s question is that it implies works-based salvation. Righteousness is a gift we can never earn. Thank God we never have to.
The Calling of Matthew
Thinking of Matthew’s big party makes me smile. It feels like home, warm and inviting. I imagine smiles and tears as people realize that Jesus accepts them as they are.