The Things of My Soul
If you were able to step back in time, a long time ago, to the days during which Jesus Christ walked this Earth and ministered to thousands, and supposing you had the chance to meet Him and ask one question, what might that be? Would we not ask the question of our soul, the question with the greatest significance for not only this life but for eternity?
The Gospel of Mark in the Bible gives us an account of a rich young man, who when he heard Jesus was passing by, came running and asked Christ the question of his soul. He asked Him, “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” This is indeed a very good question. One with eternal consequence. One demonstrating deep pondering about the things of the soul, a yearning to know more, and a willingness to do not only that which was commanded in the scriptures, but more if needed. Christ was moved by this young man’s sincerity. Seeing into his heart and soul, and understanding both his righteous works and desires, Christ told him that there was but one thing more he need to do, which was to give all that he had to the poor and then take up the cross and follow him. This was too much for the young man to offer and he went away sorrowful.
God loves effort. He asks us to follow Him, to keep His commandments, to take up the cross of discipleship, and ultimately remake ourselves in His image. But He does not expect us to do this by ourselves, for we cannot. He gave us a Savior, Jesus Christ, who extends His open hand, and as we take it to follow Him, He lifts us and gives us greater strength. Ultimately, He does for us that which we cannot do for ourselves. As we repent and strive to become more like Him, He forgives our sins, heals us, and remakes us in His image. What He asks of us is to not only believe and keep His commandments, but to give our whole heart and soul to Him so He can mold us into the better person He knows we can be. To these He promises an inheritance of eternal life.
So back to the question. What would you ask Him? What are the deep profound things of your soul?
I won’t presume what yours might be, but let’s go back to the question asked by the rich young man since it is a pretty good one. Most of us are not wealthy so his challenge is not ours. Most of us have not even kept God’s commandments since our youth. So, Christ would likely tailor His answer more to our situation. Perhaps something as follows:
1) Love God with all thy heart.
2) Love thy neighbor as thyself.
3) Keep my commandments.
4) Have joy. “Be of good cheer, and do not fear” for “I the Lord am with you and will stand by you.”
May God help us realize the things of our soul.
