[HarleyD]

His answer was, obey the commandments (work); give everything to the poor (work), pick up the cross and follow Him (work).

If you truly believe this was the intent of our Lord's discord with the rich, young ruler then consider this:

Luk 12:33 "Sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys.

Here's a command of our Lord Jesus. Let me know when you do it. You may have to use the computer at the library to converse on Freepers for you're suppose to sell everything.

Every verse that you quoted (and the one I quoted) simply shows how we fall short of following God's commands. The young man was so smug thinking he was perfect-he wasn't and our Lord Jesus took him to task in a loving way. It is by recognizing our shortfalls that we recognize God's grace.

BTW-Our Lord knew that God wasn't the center of this man's life in His opening dialogue. Our Lord Jesus said, "Why do you call me good. None is good but God alone." This was obviously a play on words since this man WAS talking to God. I will also hasten to add that NONE is good would also include Mary.

[annalex]

The obligation of charity extends to me when I am rich enough to provide for my family and our parents (which is commended of me as well), that is, I am in the position the rich man was in.

At this point my net worth is zero.