In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus poses a question that slices through every generation, “What can a man give in exchange for his soul?”
It’s not just theological – it’s deeply personal, confronting us with the true worth of life and what we’re willing to sacrifice for it.
Today, people chase pleasure, wealth, influence, prestige, and achievement. These pursuits often demand sacrifice, time, health, relationships, even moral integrity. But when the applause fades and the trophies gather dust, a quiet question lingers; Was it worth it?
Jesus’ question implies a transaction, if you lose your life – your very soul – what could you give to buy it back? The answer is clear: nothing. Life, in this sense, is more than breath and heartbeat, it’s the eternal essence of a person. And once lost, it cannot be redeemed by money, fame, or power.
This shifts the conversation from the temporary to the eternal. The Bible warns of the deceit of worldly gain, the false promise that “more” will make us whole. Wealth, titles, and recognition aren’t evil in themselves, but they are fleeting. They rust, fade, break, and remain here when we pass on. None of them can save a soul.
Christ’s words are a call to reorder our priorities. Our souls are priceless and unique; to exchange them for anything the world offers is a tragic bargain. True wealth is measured not by possessions or applause, but by faith, integrity, and the way we live before God.
And yet, the question is also rhetorical. We already know – nothing can replace the soul. Here is the good news: the price for our souls has already been paid. Not by us, but for us. Christ, valuing us beyond measure, gave His life so that we might live – not because we earned it, but because of His love.
This is not a question meant to condemn, but to awaken. It urges us to live with eternity in view, to guard our souls, and to invest in what truly lasts. Because if we gain the whole world and lose ourselves, we have gained nothing. But if we give ourselves to God’s purposes, we discover life at its fullest.
Written by Evangy Enoch
