And Jesus said, “Why do you say that I am good? No one; nothing except for the Lord, God is good (excellent, virtuous, principled…).” (Mark 10:18)
What is your standard for excellence in
attitude, thought, and behavior? Do you have a list? Have you worked hard to
assemble a self-created code of laws to govern your own conduct and that of
your people? If so, you are settling for something that is less than ideal.
Jesus is here answering the question, “What
must I do to become an heir to the life God offers?” This statement is Jesus’
summary of that answer. He continued with a reference to God’s law and
challenged His questioner. Finally, Jesus observed the hopeless condition of a
person who thinks he or she can find real life, meaning, and purpose – either
here on earth, or eternally – apart from relationship with the living, virtuous
God who truly is good. The Lord, God has values. He has a framework designed
specifically for your life, and for the life of each of your people. Your list
of rules is not adequate to govern you, much less will those rules be enough
for the unique, diverse people you will lead. Your words and actions must encourage
them to find relationship with Jesus if you are to help them prosper.
Don’t settle for human goodness. Put all
your hope in the Lord’s complete goodness.
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