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 Among
the most disappointing stories related in the Bible is the one
about the remarkable young man who comes running to Jesus with
the important question about eternal life (Matt. 19; Mk. 10; Lk.
18). His composite picture as set forth in the Scriptures is
impressive. Not only does he have youth, he also has position
and wealth (the very things that seem to keep many from Jesus!).
In addition, he is one of high moral character, having kept the
commandments of God from youth. However, his crowning quality is
revealed in the question, "What lack I yet?"; he is
still seeking to improve himself! Who couldn't respect such
a man?
But,
then comes the disappointing part of the story. It comes when
Jesus tells him something he evidently didn't want or expect to
hear. Because Jesus knew his heart, He also knew his lack.
"And Jesus looking upon him loved him, and said unto him,
one thing thou lackest: go, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give
to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come,
follow me. But his countenance fell at the saying, and he went
away sorrowful..." (Mk. 10:21, 22). To him the price of
following Jesus and gaining eternal life was more than he was
willing to pay.
In
one way or another, many are repeating the tragic mistake of
this young man. Their decision may not be so obvious, but it's
the same in that they demonstrate an unwillingness to give up
their ways in favor of His. So, they too go away. Oh, not
necessarily away from the church building, or away from religion
or morality — but they go THEIR way and reject His rule. And
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worse, many go their way without
seriously considering the needful, yet easily suppressed
question, "what lack I yet?"
Consequently,
this needful question becomes the neglected question. Why?
Obviously, because of the unwelcomed and incriminating answer!
And that poses still another question: "Do I really want
to know wherein I am lacking?" If not, the other
question means nothing. I once knew of a man being considered
for elder who invited the offering of any possible objections to
his serving. He got plenty. Then, he got plenty mad and began
objecting about his objectors! Those who don't want to know of
their "lack" will always be lacking — they will
forever be going away from Jesus.
On
the other hand, those who sincerely seek improvement WANT to
know of their lack; they WANT to know what can keep them from
heavenly treasures and eternal life. Jesus alludes to the
necessity of such a spirit when he tells the young ruler,
"if thou wouldest be perfect..." Strong desire
underlies every worthwhile achievement, whether doing or
learning. "If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know
of the teaching..." (Jn. 7: 17). He who truly hungers and
thirsts after righteousness (who wants to be right more than all
else) will continually confront himself with the question,
"what lack I yet?" If he is willing to listen, the
Lord still answers through His word. It provides all things that
make us complete (2 Tim. 3:16,17). The question is, will I face
the question? Dan S. Shipley
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