A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.
-Mark 14:51-52 (NIV)
Mark 14 records the story of Jesus with his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus is praying, the disciples are sleeping, and in walks Judas with his gang. A skirmish breaks out, an ear gets cut off, and Jesus is arrested and lead away.
Mark’s version of the story however contains an extra part not included in the other gospels. Seemingly out of nowhere, he adds that another guy was there watching it all go down. This man was almost apprehended, but narrowly escaped by slipping out of his clothes and running away naked.
Most assume the young man was Mark himself, and this inclusion was simply his way of saying, “I was there.” Out of modesty and embarrassment, I think it’s easy to understand why he would want to remain anonymous.
Now, I know I’m looking far too into it than is necessary. But truth is truth.
The young man had two choices. He could stay clothed and be captured. Or, he could be naked and be free.
And the choice is really the same for us. God wants us to find our value and security in him and him alone. But we don’t do that, do we? Instead we turn to everything but our Father to make us feel worthwhile. Whether it’s your career, significant other, pride, social status, friends or money you cover yourself with, none will lead to freedom. Instead, like the young man, trying to stay covered up will ultimately lead to your downfall.
You see, the young man was said to be “following Jesus.” If you want to be a follower of Christ, then hiding isn’t an option. If you want to truly live, then you better be prepared to be exposed.
Be naked and be free.
