Jesus’ words in this passage can sound harsh at first.
But at the heart of His teaching is real concern for our well-being. He knows how easily our hearts can become attached to things that hurt us or lead us away from the life God wants for us.
That’s why He uses such vivid language, to shake us awake, to help us see the seriousness of even “small” sins or unhealthy attachments.
Most of the time, our struggles aren’t with our physical eyes or hands, but with our thoughts, desires, habits, or patterns of living.
Maybe it’s something we watch, something we hold onto, or a way we treat others. Sometimes it’s anger, jealousy, addiction, or just the distractions that quietly pull us away from prayer and love.
Jesus isn’t asking us to do the impossible or to be perfect overnight. He’s inviting us to take a closer look at what is really going on in our hearts. What do we need to let go of, even if it’s difficult?
Sometimes, saying “no” to something unhealthy feels like losing a part of ourselves. But when we let go, God can fill that empty space with His love, healing, and peace.
Letting go is rarely easy. It might mean breaking a habit, asking for help, setting new boundaries, or making a fresh start. But every small step toward God, every honest effort to remove what causes us to stumble, is a step toward freedom.
Jesus’ words remind us: our relationship with God is worth whatever it takes.
Take a quiet moment today to ask yourself: Is there something, big or small that keeps drawing me away from God or the life I want to live? What’s one gentle step I can take to “cut it off” or “let it go” today?
Lord, open my eyes to anything that keeps me from You.
Give me strength to let go of whatever holds me back, and fill me with the courage and trust I need to take my next step toward You.
Amen.
