Sometimes we face our need for Jesus most when we are separated from others and imprisoned with no place to go. Without their familiar surroundings, prisoners often turn to Jesus, the “man of sorrows.” In worship services they find Him to be the pearl of great price. They see that while they are completely bankrupt and poor in spirit, they are indeed blessed.
The Bible is adamant about defending and giving to the poor. Jesus Himself came into our world small, helpless, and poor. The rich young man who fell on his knees before Jesus had kept the law. Mark reports that Jesus loved the young man. It doesn’t say He loved him because he kept the law or because he was rich. He simply loved him.
Jesus knew that sometimes the wealthy would be inclined to think they had all they needed. Riches might become their god. It may be “easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Do you value anything that keeps you from following the Lord? Keep your eyes on what is of inestimable value: Jesus.