That was a disappointing story to be sure. But what is also important to realize was the reaction of Jesus. He was disappointed with the man’s failure to dispose of his possessions and follow Him, but Jesus gave him the freedom to make that choice, even if it was the wrong one. Jesus did not complain to Roman soldiers that that man should be arrested and his possessions confiscated. The message was that of freedom, not force, to follow Him.
That was a disappointing story to be sure. But what is also important to realize was the reaction of Jesus. He was disappointed with the man’s failure to dispose of his possessions and follow Him, but Jesus gave him the freedom to make that choice, even if it was the wrong one. Jesus did not complain to Roman soldiers that that man should be arrested and his possessions confiscated. The message was that of freedom, not force, to follow Him.