"Follow me."

Another good example of Jesus' way of helping people is his invitation to "follow me." This is the greatest gift, but it is not something that people can accept passively. They have to act. And there is great risk involved, so it requires much of the person, much faith, which is central to what Jesus is offering. Because we draw closer to God by faith.

I love Mark's version of Jesus' first preaching. It makes it so clear that Jesus is announcing the kingdom of God present, the long-awaited time is here. And then Mark describes the response of the first disciples:

Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel."

And passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, "Follow me and I will make you become fishers of men." And immediately they left their nets and followed him. (Mk 1.14-18)

Jesus offers something incredible, a new life, here and now. But the disciples have to get up, leave everything, and follow. This is a great challenge for them. But it is the only way to receive what Jesus is offering.

We see this again in the story of the rich young man:

One came up to him, saying, "Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?" And Jesus said to him, "Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments."

...The young man said to him, "All these I have observed; what do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. (Mt 19.16-17, 20-22)

The man recognizes what Jesus "help" will cost him and chooses to decline. He can only receive from Jesus if he follows.

People are very ready to receive help when that help lets them continue to pursue their own ambitions. But the help Jesus offers requires a radical change in us. This is the kind of help I want to offer as well.