This Sunday I’ll be teaching from Mark 10. Mark contrasts blind Bartimaeus’ story contrasts with the rich young ruler. Both encounter Jesus — but only one chooses to follow. Following Jesus is a personal decision, and it will cost us something.
Watching this unfold, Peter says, “We have left everything to follow You.” Was that confidence in their commitment to Jesus? Was there an attitude of comparison to the poor choice of the ruler?
“‘We’ve given up everything to follow you,’ Peter said. ‘Yes,’ Jesus replied, ‘and I assure you that everyone who has given up … for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return … and in the world to come that person will have eternal life.’”
Mark 10:28–30 NLT
It’s easy to compare our surrender with others. But Jesus isn’t asking us to measure, He’s calling us to follow. The ruler held on and walked away. Bartimaeus let go and followed.
Is there something I’m holding onto that is keeping me from a more complete surrender? Search my heart, O Lord, I want to follow You with a more complete surrender.
