Scripture: Mark 12:34a
And when Jesus saw that one of the scribes had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”
Thought for the Day: There are some things in life where pretty close is really something to celebrate. There are other times when close isn’t anywhere near success. When Jesus hears the scribe speak of how love of the Lord and neighbor are above all other offerings, he describes the man as being in close proximity to the Kingdom of God. This may sound as if he is falling short, but in fact, I think it is Jesus’ way of encouraging him to take the next step. It is one thing to confess one’s love for God and neighbor, but the theoretical concept remains a bit removed from living it. Go and do, and you shall find the Kingdom of God. Continue to stand here and pontificate about these things, and the Kingdom of God will remain elusive.
Prayer: God, make me a doer of your word and not just a sermonizer. I want to live in your Kingdom and not just ponder the theories of Christ-like living. Amen.
