Opus 2026-138: The Real Obstacle

Jesus once confused his listeners by making the following statement,

(Mar 10:24 KJV)  And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
(Mar 10:25 KJV)  It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Some say Jesus was being humorous.  The word hyperbole comes up.  What is also clear is the surprise that the disciples had.  

(Mar 10:26 KJV)  And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

Rich people were assumed to be rich because God blessed them.  They were thought to go to the front of the line when Saint Peter called.  What was this nonsense about how hard it was?

As I was thinking about this and discounting all the theories I have heard I had another one.  The biggest obstacle to getting a camel through the eye of the needle is that he doesn’t want to go.  The same would be true of the rich man.

I think what stirred this thought was the question about certain leaders, like Donald Trump, having any understanding about salvation.  They often know the lingo.  They will admit there is a God and that He is in charge.  What they are not willing to do is submit themselves to that God.

We don’t have too many camels running loose today.  A better example might be exhibited by my grandchildren trying to get a small lizard to go into the jar they were offering.  I did not follow each chapter and verse but I think the final score was Lizard 1, grandchildren 0, but a good time was had by all.

Picture trying to get me to eat liver and onions.  My pastor was making another attempt to convince me of how good they are if they are fixed right.  Of course I know an oxymoron when I hear it.  You can’t make dry water or edible liver.  I could go to any store in the country and buy raw liver.  I could go to many restaurants and have it already prepared.  I can afford it.  Everything is in place except the fact that I am not willing to try it again.

That is where so many are in relation to the things of God.  They know all that they need to know and have access to people who will answer any questions they might come up with.  The problem is the same problem the camel has:  They don’t want to.

So relax in your concern for that rich and talented friend.  Keep a Bible handy because you never know when you will need it but realize the decision is up to them.

homo unius libri