Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” “Which ones?” he inquired. Jesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, ’and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.” “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. (Matthew 19:16-22)

I’ve read this passage before and I’ve always focused on Jesus’ answers to the man’s questions. Today, the man’s second question hit me. “What do I still lack?” In hearing Jesus’ answer to his first question, the man determined that he was in pretty good shape regarding the requirements to inherit eternal life. But he didn’t he just say “Alright! I’m good!” and walk away. He wanted to know what else he had to do. It was a daring question – he had no idea what the answer would be. Turns out, it was too much for him, at least at the time.

Am I brave enough to ask “What do I still lack?” If I love my Lord, and I do, am I willing to hear his answer and obey? Am I too comfortable thinking I’m already in good shape? I’ve accepted Jesus as my savior, so my salvation is assured. Shouldn’t I just rest in that, and let sleeping dogs lie? Even as I write this I feel a little anxious about what the answer could be.

“What do I still lack?” This question is important because Jesus doesn’t ask us for a half-hearted commitment. He wants us to be all-in for him…to be willing to give and do all for him. As we ask this question, we can also ask for a change in our will (if needed), and the strength and courage to do, or not do, whatever Jesus asks. We must also remember that the answer will be different things for different people, and we are neither able nor called to determine what another lacks.

I’m smiling right now, thinking of how often we can, like the wealthy questioner, feel sad at the thought of doing or giving up whatever it might be the Lord is asking. My experience is that the practice of obedience doesn’t lead to suffering, but to freedom and joy. Our Lord is good, and he loves us! The cost of following may seem high, but there is inherent good in following his ways. The fruit is always good.

Lord, what do I still lack?