Faith without religion.
Faith and Reflection: Enoch’s Journey
In the midst of the COVID-19 quarantine, we find ourselves reflecting on the teachings of Luke 18:18-30, a passage that delves into the encounter between Jesus and the rich young ruler. This narrative challenges us to consider the nature of goodness and the path to eternal life. The young ruler, described as wealthy and ambitious, approaches Jesus with a question that reveals a common belief of the time: that eternal life could be earned through good deeds.
Jesus, however, redirects the conversation, highlighting the inconsistency in the ruler’s greeting and pointing out that only God is truly good. This interaction serves as a reminder that our words must align with our beliefs and that superficial flattery holds no weight in the eyes of God.
The rich young ruler claims to have kept the commandments from his youth, yet Jesus challenges him further, asking him to sell all he has and give to the poor. This request exposes the ruler’s attachment to his wealth, illustrating the difficulty of entering the kingdom of God when one’s heart is bound by material possessions.
Jesus’ teaching here is profound: it is not through our own efforts or righteousness that we gain eternal life, but through the grace of God. The impossibility of a camel passing through the eye of a needle serves as a metaphor for the futility of relying on wealth or works for salvation. Instead, Jesus emphasizes that what is impossible for man is possible with God.
This passage invites us to examine our own lives and the “tap-root” issues that may hinder our relationship with God. It challenges us to prioritize our love for God and our neighbors above all else, recognizing that true fulfillment and eternal life come from following Jesus and embracing His grace. As we navigate these uncertain times, may we find comfort and guidance in these timeless teachings.