After enduring the worst economic recession in the past fifty years, it is hardly surprising that every political candidate this season promises new jobs, more money in our pockets, and blossoming businesses — if only they are elected. We desperately want reassurance that things are going to get better and our financial security will be assured.

It is a safe bet that if today’s gospel reading were a stump speech, Jesus wouldn’t get elected dog-catcher.

As Jesus is continuing on his journey to Jerusalem, he suddenly encounters a potential disciple. While Matthew and Luke identify this individual as “young” and “a ruler,” Mark does not provide any descriptive details about the man at this time. That the man runs to Jesus and then kneels before him suggests a sincere earnestness in the man…