The Love of God is Amazing

Mark 10:17-31

Today's reading is yet another instance where I was struck by an unlikely part of the scripture. This story of the rich man who wants to know what he must do to be saved has long stood as a warning against loving the riches of this world more than God. When the man asked Jesus what he had to do, Jesus told him to obey the commandments. After all, this was the way God had set up for for salvation while the world waited for their Messiah. Though he claims to have never broken any of the commandments, I highly doubt that was true. I love that Jesus didn't laugh in the man's face. He didn't even rebuke him with a list of times the man had sinned. Instead, we read, "Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him."

I am constantly amazed at God's compassion. I know I should be focusing on the rich man who grew sad at the thought of giving away his riches but I can't help but spend awhile meditating on how the Lord loves us so completely. When I boast (even to myself), he knows the truth. He sees my shortcomings. He knows the depth of my need for him and he doesn't hate me for it. His love truly is amazing!

(Written by Keegan Harkins.)