Session 5
An Invitation Into More
From Rich Toward God
Have you ever received an invitation that excited you? Whether it was to a star-studded event, a career mentorship group, or a birthday party for a new friend, an invitation offers an opportunity to deepen our relationships, belong to a community, or even go on a new adventure. God is also in the business of issuing invitations. He’s a God who wants to build relationships with His people—but He always asks, never forces.
Consider just a few of the invitations God issues in the Bible: He invites Adam and Eve to eat from any tree in the garden except one in Genesis 2. He invites Abraham to leave his country and adventure with Him to a new land in Genesis 12. In Deuteronomy 30, He invites His people to choose life and blessing over death and curses, and in Joshua 24, we see the Israelites invited to choose this day whom they will serve. Jesus also issues many invitations: “Come to Me” in Matthew 11:28, “Come and see” in John 1:29, and “Come and drink” in John 7:37. In the passage we read today, we see yet another invitation—but sadly, this one was not accepted.
When Jesus talks to this rich young man, He invites him to make a decision that felt like sacrifice, but came with a great reward: God and His kingdom. Before the young man was a choice—and the relationship was more important than the stuff. But his possessions possessed him. He went away sorrowful because he had his eyes focused on the now. He wanted Jesus, but he didn’t want to give up his idol. And ultimately, his “no” had a cost. He kept his possessions, but missed out on a relationship with the Creator of all.
Jesus offered a different kind of life—a life of purpose, mission, and rich relationship. In fact, He still offers that kind of life to us today! But just like the young man in Matthew, we have a choice to make. When we choose to cling tightly to our money and possessions, we expose our own limited view on life. Jesus offers so much more than wealth. In Him, we find our closest relationship, a new purpose, and an everlasting future with Jesus. Now that’s rich! When we choose to loosen our grip on our earthly wealth, we’re trusting God to give us an even greater inheritance—and that’s exactly what He’ll do.
REFLECT
- How has God used generosity and giving to deepen your relationship with him?
- How have you seen your obedience (or disobedience) to God affect your relationship with Him?