The Unearned Gift

Jesus looked at them carefully and said, “It’s impossible for human beings. But all things are possible for God.” — Matthew 19:26 (CEB)

In Matthew 19, a young man approaches Jesus with a sincere question: “What good thing must I do to have eternal life?” His earnestness is palpable, but Jesus gently redirects the conversation. The question itself is flawed—not because righteousness is unimportant, but because eternal life is not earned. It is received. 

Jesus invites the man to release his grip on wealth and follow, not as a transaction but as a transformation. When the man walks away grieving, the disciples are stunned. If even the devout and wealthy struggle to enter the kingdom, who then can be saved?

Jesus’ answer in verse 26 is both sobering and liberating: “It’s impossible for human beings. But all things are possible for God.” The kingdom is not a reward for effort, but a gift of grace. Salvation is not the result of human striving, but divine mercy. 

Elsewhere, Paul echoes this reminder in Ephesians 2:8-9: “You are saved by God’s grace because of your faith. This salvation is God’s gift. It’s not something you possessed. It’s not something you did that you can be proud of.”

Peter, ever the voice of the disciples, blurts out, “Look, we’ve left everything and followed you. What will we have?” It’s a fair question—one that reveals the human longing for assurance. Jesus responds not with rebuke but with promise. In verse 30, he offers a reversal: “Many who are first will be last. And many who are last will be first.” 

The kingdom doesn’t operate on merit or seniority. It is a realm of grace, where the overlooked are lifted, and the self-assured are humbled. The reward is not transactional—it’s relational. We inherit eternal life not by what we’ve done, but by whom we’ve followed.

Today, let us be reminded that our salvation is not a prize we earn, but a grace we receive. Let us release our striving and rest in the promise that with God, all things are possible, including the transformation of our hearts, the healing of our communities, and the hope of eternal life.

Gracious God, thank you for the gift of salvation that we cannot earn and do not deserve. Help us to let go of our need to prove ourselves and instead follow you with open hands and humble hearts. Teach us to trust in your mercy, to rejoice in your reversals, and to live as people of grace. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim