Remember - Deut.1-2 & Mk 10:1-31

The book of Deuteronomy is Moses' teachings to those who would enter the Promised Land. He recounts the entire history of the Exodus and God's redeeming acts. He recounts the laws that God gave, so the people can obey them and not suffer "wandering through life" as their parents did. And he instructs Joshua, as the new leader of this nation.

Today, as we start the book of Deuteronomy, think about these things in your life. How has God acted in your life? How has He provided for you, protected you, defeated your enemies? What might He have in store for you? What guidelines has God provided that you need to follow so that you're not stuck wandering through life, but rather following His path.

An interesting thing that I saw today as I read Deut. 1 is that it says that the Israelites wandered for 40 years and path that should've taken ELEVEN DAYS! Wow, I want so badly to just follow God's lead so it doesn't take my whole life to get around to what God wanted me to enjoy years earlier.

Moving on into Mark 10, we get to hear Jesus' teaching on divorce, entering the Kingdom of Heaven, and the cost of following Him.

With regard to divorce, it's not really a tough issue for Jesus, is it? Don't do it! If you do you are an adulterer. Jesus sounds pretty harsh, but remember that our relationship with Him is mirrored in the marriage relationship. It's supposed to be one of unending love. Jesus, obviously doesn't want this image messed up.

Jesus also teaches on entering the Kingdom of Heaven b/c someone asks him what they must do to have eternal life. Notice that His answer is not "Just believe." His answer is first of all, to obey God's commands, and secondly, give up everything on account of Him. This is obviously not easy for anyone, but Jesus points out that it is particularly hard for the rich. For those of us who live in America, that is something to pay attention to. Especially considering that even our poorest people are much more blessed than most folks in other countries.

Jesus isn't shy about letting people know that entering His kingdom is costly - it costs you everything! Why are we so shy about it? We want to give people God's grace and love unconditionally. But there is a condition - we must first give ourselves to Him. Jesus gave His life for us - are we willing to give our lives to Him?