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Reverse spirituality. Backwards Retirement.
Rod ShimabukuroMark 10:28 Then Peter spoke up, “We have left everything to follow you!”
29“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel 30will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. 31But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”
Jesus just answered the question whether a rich man is able to inherit eternal life and enter the Kingdom of God. The acquisition of earthly wealth is stated to be an obstacle to receiving an eternal inheritance.
But it’s NOT RICHES that is the enemy or deterrent. There’s a group of us pastors, teachers, Christians that sometimes put down “riches” - as if it’s evil. But the root of all evil is “the Love of” money. Jesus addresses the rich man’s heart - not his acquisition or hard work to live a comfortable life.
The distinction of riches and rewards of earth (temporal) and heaven (eternal) is addressed. WOW - then here comes Peter...We’ve left everything...! Jesus acknowledges Peter’s dedication, saying disciples who (give up riches!!) sacrifice relationships...will be rewarded.
Rewards. Riches. Retirement Plan. - that would be a good title to something :)
I’m “sort of” thinking about finances and “retirement plans” - in this season of my life. Having a mortgage, wrestling to be diligent of paying off the monthly credit cards, children in college and the on-going, persistent arrival of our many monthly bills (home, vehicles, property, living expenses, AND luxuries, entertainment, etc....)... are all weights that add poundage to the scales of worry.
I want to live and think differently - yielding to Jesus’ instruction in my life. I don’t want to be bound by earthly pursuits, wants, desires for the comfort of riches. It’s a battle, but my responsibility is to continue fighting my flesh of “want” by surrendering all my earthly treasures to God. I don’t own anything any way - right?!
My Holy and Gracious Father. I surrender my wants, possessions, life, sins...to You! Help me to be more eternally minded. Thank You for Your convicting presence in my heart, mind, soul! Please help me to obey Your guidance and voice! I love You Daddie God!
