day 13: One of the teachers of the law

Day 13: One of the Teachers of the Law

Scripture Reading: Mark 12:28-34

This encounter is deeply hopeful for pastors and congregations alike. In a Gospel where many religious leaders resist Jesus, here we meet a teacher of the law who listens. He asks sincerely. He recognizes truth when he hears it. And Jesus affirms him: “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” Not far. That phrase should both comfort and unsettle us.

As pastors who have studied Scripture and who care about orthodoxy, it is possible to be very close to the kingdom and yet still stand outside it. We can articulate the greatest commandment beautifully: love God fully and love your neighbor sincerely. We can preach it. Teach it. Defend it. And yet, the question remains: have we yielded ourselves fully to the One who embodies that love? This teacher of the law understands that love is greater than sacrifice. He grasps that devotion to God cannot be reduced to ritual performance. That insight is no small thing. In many churches today, we can measure faithfulness by attendance, giving, activity, or even correct doctrine. But Jesus centers everything on love, total love for God and self-giving love for neighbor.

The phrase “not far” reminds us that proximity is not possession. Many in our congregations are near the kingdom. They understand grace intellectually. They affirm the right answers. But the kingdom requires surrender, trust, and transformation. Our calling is not merely to bring people near, but to invite them all the way in. The Spirit is asking us the same question today: Are we near? Or have we stepped fully into the kingdom life of love?

Prayer:

Father, would you broaden my gaze and help me to see all people and places with your eyes? Help me to move beyond the boundaries of my comfort and into any corner of creation you lead me.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Won Kim

Lead Pastor of RockSpring Church