What lack I yet?

This week I’ve been making lists. In my head or on my phone, I’ve asked the following questions: What do I need to pick up from the grocery store? How will I keep my children safe and distracted while they are home from school? Who have I had contact with who may have traveled out of state? It’s been a period of slowing down and taking stock. For many, it’s been a rush to stock up and dig in.

Bracing for the coronavirus pandemic to arrive feeds anxiety. Maybe you worry about the health of loved ones, or your ability to pay bills without a steady income. Perhaps, like me, you wonder, “What am I missing here?”

The New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke relate the story of the rich young man. In each account, Jesus Christ is approached by a rich young ruler seeking to inherit eternal life. This man has been obedient to the commandments and recognizes Christ as a source of truth and direction. He responds to Christ’s list of a few basic commandments, saying, “All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” Jesus told him to go and sell all his goods, and give to the poor, to obtain treasure in heaven. But the young man went away sorrowing, “for he had great possessions” (Matt. 19:20-22).

Mark’s account provides two additional insights. “Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross and follow me” (Mark 10:21).

First, Jesus saw and loved the young man. He knew this man’s heart. Christ, through his divine power, recognized the young man’s intentions and desires. He outlined the path that would lead to the greatest joy and growth.

God also knows, loves, and sees each of us. He will direct our path and provide insight and instruction for our lives to bring us joy. We can approach God in prayer and ask, “What lack I yet?” He will provide answers and prompt us to follow the inspiration we receive.

Second, Mark ends this verse with Christ’s invitation. He did not only tell the rich young man to sell his goods and give to the poor. Jesus invited him as he invites us all, to “come…follow me.” Following Christ requires more than obedience to convenient commandments. It requires faith, action, and change.

The coming weeks may bring uncertainty. But focusing on Christ and following his example will bring peace and blessings. After I reviewed my lists and felt more or less prepared, my thoughts quickly turned outward. Instead of focusing only on my own needs and worries, I can share my abundance. I resolved to ask, every day, what I can do for someone else, and trust that God will guide my path. I can talk on the phone. I can offer to pick up groceries for a vulnerable neighbor. I can share my toilet paper.

In our pursuits along life’s path, it is easy to focus only on ourselves. The end goal should not be to have a full pantry and a padded bank account and to relish our accomplishments or security. Christ wants us to learn to rely on him while we serve and lift our neighbors. In a spiritual inventory, each of us will “lack” different things. But we can trust that if we ask God in prayer, he will help us see those weaknesses and find a way to fill them.

Amity Condie lives in Palmer and enjoys reading, writing, and skijoring with her dogs and family. She is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.