As we kick off the new year, we continue our series in Mark’s gospel. For

many, this time of year is about making new resolutions. Jesus, though,

comes to bring something greater than anything human resolve will ever

accomplish. He knows our fundamental need is not a material one, but a

spiritual one. So, he warns that whilst we may gain the whole world through

our human endeavors, we can still lose our soul. Only he can achieve for us

the life free from the power of sin that we so fundamentally need. And, he

bids us give our whole self to him, so we can rise with him to the fullness

of a life, no longer controlled by sin, which we most crave.

So, let us make this our one resolution for this, and every coming year: to

be people who give up themselves to Jesus, to take up our cross and follow.

This is where real life is to be found.

By Ed Flint