Both were rich and powerful. Both approached Jesus, seeking Him. One addressed Jesus as "Good Teacher", the other apologetically stammered, "Master." One chose to hold "on tight to a lot of things." The other chose to give away half his income and repay anyone he cheated, fourfold.
What was the true difference between these two rich men? The amount of money they possessed and must therefore release? Their religious backgrounds or good deeds or lack of them? Crabb provides some insight,
"If you miss everything in this letter but one thing, don't miss this: My Son wished forward. Seven times I had Luke record that He prayed, using the word proseuchomai, which means 'to wish forward.' That is the core of human maturity in this life. My Son had no greater desire than to carry out His part in My plan. That is the center of spiritual formation, not more energy, not feeling more upbeat, but a clear awareness of the deepest truly human desire, a desire that releases resolve, an unfliching determination to follow the lead of My Son in bringing heaven's kingdom to earth, a longing to love....
"Notice, too, that seven times I record that My Son's wishing forward meant going to Jerusalem to die.... Perfect maturity counts the cost and keeps moving." (66LL)Jesus, in perfect maturity, was moving forward in the plan that would cost His life. In fact, He was moving forward to sacrifice His life for this messed up bunch of disciples and a short man in a tree. In one rich man, He saw the desire to hang on tight to his life and to stay put. In the other rich man, He saw a broken man who was lost and ready to be found (19:10). The cost had been counted and Zacchaeus wanted to move forward with Jesus, without regard for the price.
1 comment:
So encouraging. Jesus came to save everyone who is lost and can see their need for Him, everyone who is willing to call Him master. Even the rich people who ARE ready to be found, He prepares their hearts. I'm challenged today to wish forward and not be a person who wants to hold on so tightly to my life. Recently, I've just been reminded from God to let go and trust Him with everything.
The cost had been counted and Christina wanted to move forward with Jesus, without regard for the price. Lord, make this true of my heart. Lord help me to have no greater desire than becoming more like You and carrying out my part in Your Great PLAN. Thank You for giving me faith and finding me, pursuing me and saving me in love. I am unworthy but grateful. So grateful to know You and give you my heart today, again and again in response to Your love for me.
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