Following Jesus · Part 18 of 40 · 2 min
The Young Man Who Had Many Things
A young man with many possessions ran up to Jesus. He knelt before him and asked what he should do to receive eternal life.
Jesus spoke about God's commandments. The man said he had kept them since he was young.
Jesus looked at him with love. He saw one thing that still held the man's heart.
He asked him to sell what he owned, give to the poor, and come follow him.
The man became sad. He had so many things, and he did not want to let them go.
He went away sorrowful.
Jesus explained to his disciples how difficult it can be for a person to enter God's kingdom when riches hold the heart tightly.
The disciples wondered how anyone could be saved. Jesus reminded them that what is impossible for people is possible with God.
Having things is not the same as having peace. A gift becomes a problem when we love it more than God or the people who need our care.
We can begin by sharing, giving thanks, and remembering that a person matters more than a possession.
Retelling of Mark 10:17–27.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 57. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Generosity
- What did Jesus ask the young man to do with his possessions?
- Why do you think the young man walked away feeling sad?
- How can we show that people matter more than our things?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
Share a Moment
Choose a toy with a grown-up that you would like to use together for a few minutes. Agree how to care for it and take turns. Then discuss the joy of sharing an experience, without needing to give away something unwillingly.
Try it today: We can care for our things and use them to share time with others.
More stories with these values
Count and choose
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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