This week I’m taking a break from The Trouble with Jesus Blog in order to move into another space. In a couple of months, I will be speaking on a Sunday morning (yeah, it’s a sermon but that sounds preachy, not me.) The lesson that week has its challenges. (So what else would I ever say when I write all the time about The Trouble with Jesus?)

Let me get straight to it. The passage turns on Mark 10:21. “Jesus felt genuine love for this [rich] man as he looked at him. ‘You lack only one thing,’ he told him. “Go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”

Here’s your chance to bring your voice to this passage. And this is where I need your help. In 50 words or so, what are your thoughts about what Jesus meant or was saying in this verse, especially the part I have italicized? I would like to use your (as in, collectively your) responses in this message. No one’s name or any identifying information will be revealed. Just email what you think by October 1, 2021. constance.hastings@constancehastings.com The message will be recorded in YouTube, and a blog posting with the link taking you to the recording will be made available.

Why am I asking for this help? Let me admit two things right now. I don’t have all the answers to the challenges Jesus brings. It’s only in faith and after much thought and emotional/spiritual wrestling that I offer this blog or whatever message I’m asked to prepare. That being said, I do want to hear your thoughts, beliefs, hopes and fears about Jesus. Only when I have your perspectives, even when based in the tension of doubt, can I speak to you with affirmations or directions you could choose to move.

Together then, we can learn.

In this company of voices, let’s give an answer to The Trouble with Jesus.

“Then come, follow me.”