In the practice of yoga, one inevitably encounters something called the “steady edge.” This is the boundary where our physical comfort meets our discomfort, the point at which we feel the challenge of growth. It’s where I wobble while trying to keep my balance in Tree Pose. Or when I steal a peek at the person on the mat beside me whose body is folded gracefully into a Seated Forward Bend with their forehead on the floor and hands grasping their feet, while my torso refuses to budge beyond a 45 degree angle to the mat and my toes remain beyond the reach of my outstretched fingers.  Finding our steady edge is about recognizing our limits and using that awareness as a springboard for growth.

Experiencing one’s steady edge isn't confined to yoga mats. It also parallels the spiritual journey Jesus calls us to embark upon. In the gospels, Jesus frequently leads those he encounters to the edge of their comfort zones, urging them to venture into a deeper, transformative faith. Consider the story of the rich man who approached Jesus with a question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Despite his wealth and adherence to moral laws, he felt a profound emptiness that his riches couldn't fill. Jesus, discerning his steady edge, saw that his attachment to material possessions was holding him back from a deeper relationship with God. Jesus challenged him to go beyond that edge by selling all his possessions and following Him.

What I find most comforting about this interaction is that Jesus responded to the man without any shaming or condemnation. Jesus looked at him with compassion and perceived the sincerity of his request. He identified this man’s steady edge; the one thing he needed to do to find the inner assurance and peace he was seeking. "You lack one thing: go, sell everything you have, give the proceeds to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

The text indicates that the man “was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions." I believe Jesus was also grieving for him as he turned and walked away.

This story isn’t just about relinquishing wealth; it’s about releasing the grip that material, emotional and social attachments have on our hearts. Jesus wasn’t asking for mere sacrifice but inviting the rich man to make room for greater spiritual treasures and a more profound experience of God’s grace.

In our own lives, the steady edge might not be about wealth but could involve privileges, prejudices, or fears that prevent us from fully embracing the living out of our faith. As we seek to follow him, Jesus invites us to reflect on these areas:

• What are the attachments or comforts that keep me from experiencing the fullness of life in Christ?
• Am I willing to step beyond my steady edge and let go of what holds me back?

Stepping beyond our steady edge can be challenging and uncomfortable, but Jesus assures us that the rewards of following him far surpass the temporary discomforts. Through his love and guidance, Jesus helps us see and move beyond our limits, leading us to a richer, more fulfilling journey of faith.

Take a few moments today to reflect on what might be your steady edge. Ask God to reveal what may be holding you back from a fuller experience of God’s love and purpose in your life. Trust in God’s guidance as you take steps of faith beyond your comfort zone.