In Matthew 19:13-16, we are reminded that Jesus loves kids, and that kids are an example for adults. Then in verses 17-30, a young man approaches Jesus with a big question, and in his reply, Jesus uncovers a deeper issue that is holding the young man back. Jesus tells him that if he “wants to be perfect”, go and sell everything you have and give to the poor, then come follow me. In the game “trading up”, a person offers to trade what they have for something more valuable and see how far they can go with it. For example, a person may trade up a paper clip for a dime, then a dime for a pen, then a pen for a dollar, etc., until…? A car? A house? Jesus is playing a game of trading up with this young man, but Jesus is saying that a life of discipleship offers more joy and freedom than great wealth. The man goes away sad, because he doesn’t agree. Do you?