The gospel of Mark describes Jesus’ encounter with a rich young ruler. From a human point of view, this man had it made. He had his youth. He had immense wealth. He had prominent social standing. He was religious. But Jesus knew something the young man didn’t. He put his finger on the young ruler’s trust in his wealth. “One thing you lack,” Jesus told him. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

Go, sell, come, and follow. That was Jesus’ call. The young man walked away sad. He missed the point! The Lord wasn’t demanding possessions, but asking for ownership. I believe Jesus was going to tell him, “Give it to me, but don’t worry. You’ll get more than enough back. I just want you to give it to me. Remove that idol – that love and dependence on money. Depend on me.”

Jesus doesn’t need our things, but he wants our hearts. He wants us to surrender our rights and everything that we feel keeps us safe. He wants us to count the cost and realize the sacrifice is worth it. The rich young ruler didn’t do that; he left too soon. But Jesus asks us to “go, sell, come, and follow.” He asks us for loyalty to Him, and love for Him, total sacrifice, and maximum surrender. It won’t be easy, but it will be wonderful. God will honor and use our sacrifice for His glory. Go, sell, come, and follow Jesus. That path will enable you to reach your world for Christ.    

This is Luis Palau.