In economics, there is a concept of opportunity cost. This is the value of what you give up to get something else. In saying yes to something, we say no to something else. If what we refuse gives comfort, it is usually hard to let go. If what we accept guarantees a better tomorrow, it makes progress easier.
In Exodus 11 and 12, God gives the Israelites instructions on the Passover through Moses as they prepare to leave Egypt. They had been slaves for 430 years, and it was time to be free. They had looked forward to their freedom, so they followed the instructions without protest. The instructions were strange to their current culture, but in view of their freedom, they did not mind.
Similarly in Matthew 19:1-22, we see Jesus give instructions about marriage and wealth that were foreign to the prevalent culture. Unlike the Israelites in Exodus, the reactions to these instructions were not welcoming. In fact, the disciples concluded that no one should marry and the rich, young ruler could not give up his possessions.
Following God is easy sometimes. At other times, it can be difficult. One thing to always remember is – whatever you need to give up to obey God pales in the light of what God has for you. You must learn to delight in God’s best regardless.
Reflection question: How can I position my heart to be content with God’s instructions?
Today’s reading
Exodus 11-12
Now the Lord had said to Moses, “I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here, and when he does, he will drive you out completely.
2 Tell the people that men and women alike are to ask their neighbours for articles of silver and gold.”
3 (The Lord made the Egyptians favourably disposed toward the people, and Moses himself was highly regarded in Egypt by Pharaoh’s officials and by the people.)
Matthew 19:1-22
When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went into the region of Judea to the other side of the Jordan.
2 Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there.
3 Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?”