The story of Jesus’ ministry and time on earth is rich in events of everyday living. Some stories are in the Bible, some are made up, but through this series I’m simply trying to imagine what it would be like to live in that time and actually meet the Son of God – face to face.

SAMUEL – A RICH, YOUNG MAN

I am a man of wealth. I’m also Jewish and a Roman citizen. Some would say I was born with a silver chalice in my mouth. My family follows all the traditions of the Jewish religion. We keep the law of Moses to perfection. The commandments of God were drilled into us as children at the temple. You could say I have it all. I own several horses, a chariot and a home of my own on my father’s property.

As I sit at my window each morning, I witness the sun rising over the street. The city is coming to life. Merchants set up their wares for the visitors in town for the Passover celebration. I often watch as each new religious zealot or activist passes by. There are many of them. I suppose the lower classes need something to hang onto. Many live in squalor while others just get by. Then there are the rich. I’m not under the thumb of the Roman government as long as I pay the taxes due and donate to various projects. Corruption is everywhere and even though I could pay my way through life, something seems to be missing. Crime is at an all-time high and the Roman soldiers have difficulty controlling some of the mobs.

It seems the laws have no bearing anymore. I can’t complain, because I have the means to make it through this life without a problem. The government, the city officials and leaders, even the higher ups in the church appear to be on the take, while the average person struggles for his daily bread. If you have money, you can buy your way out of any situation.

When Jesus came to Jerusalem. He brought His entourage of close friends. A massive crowd followed Him as He preached to both rich and poor. His voice reached my window, and I needed to hear more. I quickly joined the crowd, pushing my way closer until I was right next to Him. His words were filled with promises for a better life – for freedom from tyranny and oppression – for a place where people could live as equals. I’d never seen such honesty and purity on a human countenance. He spoke to the church leaders who were trying to trick Him into saying something that would lead to His imprisonment. To them He was not only a threat, but a rabble rouser. Eventually they would rise up and accuse Him of blasphemy.

I had a question of my own. “What must I do to obtain eternal life?”

Jesus asked if I was willing to give up my life of wealth to follow Him. His eyes pierced my soul as He looked deeply into mine. I was stunned by his comment. How could I give up all that I had? He was asking me to make a huge sacrifice. I went back to my home completely discouraged. Was I walking away from the greatest treasure ever? Did I do the right thing? Was it because I refused to give up all that I own or was it because my faith wasn’t strong enough to rely totally on Him? I will ponder these questions for the rest of my days.