The God-Related Life

Mark 10:25 

It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.

Was there a small gate in Jerusalem called the needle? Was the Camel really meant to be a rope? After our rational mind asks all these questions to view this analogy from the top, beneath and sideways we are left with this. It is a simple analogy for some things that are difficult to accomplish. So why is it stated here that it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God? I don't believe it is a criticism for being rich but a cautionary note to all of us.

Money does buy a lot of things and not all of them are good for our mind or body. If we can afford to eat three meals a day we are rich according to the standards of how majority of human beings live. However, with this material blessing comes a bit of false security along with things to distract us. Our homes are cluttered with stuff more than ever and our desire for leisure and fun keeps us busy with no time to really live in the kingdom of God. God related life, on the other hand, puts money in its place. Ever since I was little I grew up singing a song that said youth is transient and wealth will not bring real well being. While I do plan for the future and do what I can to live a financially independent life, I am aware that security from wealth is fleeting and true contentment comes from knowing that God is with me no matter what. The true challenge is in being aware of God and his steadfast love in our everyday life so we can be a witness to His Glory. Now that I am grown up (aka getting old)I want to sing, "I don't care too much for money, money can't buy me God's love". Sorry Beatles.

Prayer: Merciful God, you taught us not to have idols. Those shiny cars, palatial homes and creature comforts do distract us whether we own them or not. Give us the wisdom to know what is really important in the abundant life that you promise. Amen