44 The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. 45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46 When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. (Matthew 13:44-46 NIV)
I have heard it said, "Salvation is free, but it will cost you everything." In the first parable, when the man realizes there is a treasure in a field, he joyfully sells everything (emphasis mine) to buy this field.
In Luke's Gospel chapters 18 and 19, we read about two guys who met Jesus. Zacchaeus was a cheating tax collector who gladly welcomed the Lord into his home. The encounter had such a profound impact on wealthy Zacchaeus that he decided to give half of his goods to the poor. If he had cheated anyone, he would pay them back four times. Jesus also met a rich ruler who was pious enough that he could say that he had kept the commandments since he was young. Jesus told him that he still lacked one thing - he needed to sell his goods and give to the poor and follow him. The Bible tells us that the ruler went away sorrowfully.
And so…what will you do when the Lord calls you to a deeper commitment to Him? When He nudges you about a habit or speaks to your heart about an attitude? Will you gladly say, "Yes," or will you go away sorrowfully carrying your little bag of stuff labeled, "For me only?" The choice is ours.
A song by Michael W. Smith expresses my plea to the Lord, "I will open up my heart, Search me in the deepest parts, And I will stand in cleansing fire, By You I'm purified, By You I'm purified."
Let's pray, "Lord, I want to be able to give you everything and anything you ask, and with a willing and joyful heart. Please help me. Amen."
-Teresa Brand
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