In Mark 10:17-22 we discover a man who because of his great wealth was unwilling to follow Jesus.  In fact, when invited, vs. 22 tells us he walked away “disheartened and sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” 

As we look at the world and its history these past 2000 years we can say with absolute authority that indeed the church, God's people are increasing, being built up through its testimony that Jesus is the Son of God.  We also see that despite every evil that has been thrown against her, God's church continues to prevail.

God is pleading with us to put away the false notion that happiness is tied to getting more of what I want, when I want it.   Jesus wants us to know that the surest way to misery and spiritual bankruptcy is a stingy and greedy heart.  He wants us to know that when we tie our happiness to selfish desires, we will only be like the proverbial horse ever chasing the carrot on the stick.