Jesus posed a crucial question to his followers, asking, ‘What good is it for someone to gain the whole world but lose their soul?’ (Mark 8:36). Many people in society pursue various goals and desires, believing that achieving them constitutes their entire existence. They chase after worldly pursuits such as wealth, fame, pleasure, power, and status. Jesus prompts us to ponder: Is this the sum total of our lives? He challenges us to consider the purpose of our souls amidst the distractions of the world. While earthly pursuits may offer temporary satisfaction, they ultimately fade away, leaving us empty-handed. In contrast, Jesus offers a life of fulfilment and eternal joy.

Jesus emphasizes that attaining the eternal life he promises requires abandoning worldly pursuits and following him. These two paths are fundamentally opposed to each other. To embrace Jesus’ offer, we must relinquish our attachment to the worldly. Jesus succinctly articulates this truth: ‘For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it’ (Mark 8:35). On one side, we have the allure of worldly possessions, and on the other, Jesus extends the promise of eternal life. To receive what Jesus offers, we must renounce worldly passions, carry our cross, and follow him.

Jim Elliot grasped the significance of this calling when he wisely stated, ‘He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.’ As we journey through the Lenten season, let us willingly deny ourselves, detach from worldly distractions, and faithfully follow Jesus. May the Lord bless us abundantly on this journey.