“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no-one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – along with persecutions – and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Mark 10:29-31, NIV

 

When Jesus spoke these words, he was addressing his disciples' concerns about the sacrifices they were making to follow him. He reassured them that those who leave behind earthly possessions and relationships for the sake of the gospel would receive abundant blessings in this life and eternal life in the age to come.

 

Following Jesus does not guarantee a life free from challenges or hardships. In fact, Jesus acknowledged that his disciples would experience persecutions along with the blessings. However, he assured them that the blessings far outweighed any temporary difficulties.

 

It's important to note that the blessings Jesus spoke of are not limited to material possessions. The "hundred times" refers to the rich relationships and spiritual family we gain when we become part of God's kingdom. As we embrace our identity as children of God, we are welcomed into a community of believers who become our brothers, sisters, mothers, and children. We also receive the inheritance of eternal life in God's presence.

 

Today, let us reflect on the sacrifices we make for the sake of following Jesus. Let us find encouragement in the knowledge that God's blessings are not only reserved for the future, but we can experience them in the present. May we embrace the relationships and provisions God graciously provides, even amidst the challenges we face. And let us eagerly anticipate the eternal life that awaits us in the age to come.

 

Prayer: Loving Father, thank you for the abundant blessings you bestow upon us as we follow you. Help us to trust in your faithfulness, especially during times of sacrifice and persecution. Open our eyes to the rich relationships and provisions you provide in this life. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.