Peter answered Jesus, "We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?" Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first. - Matthew 19:27-30

Jesus speaks comforting promises for his followers.  He recognizes that it is not always easy to be identified as one of his disciples who faithfully trusts him for life and salvation.  We may face ridicule or rejection; even perhaps more severe persecution.  Jesus once explained to his disciples, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:19).

By his death for us, Jesus bought us back from the curse of sin and the power of eternal death, and he made us his very own.  Relying on him alone as our Savior, we are privileged to be counted as one of his family to live with him forever.  Whatever cross we are required to bear because we confess him as Lord is easy and light because of the hope that we have for a tremendous future – a glorious life with God in heaven.

To be very clear, the sacrifices that we make now as his believers do not help us earn the joy of a future heavenly life.  Jesus completely earned it for us by his innocent sacrifice in our place.  Heaven’s door is opened and as we faithfully follow our Savior toward it, our walk will be marked by sacrifice and trouble.  But finally, when Jesus welcomes us to his heavenly home, he will bless us fantastically for eternity! 

Be encouraged, dear Christian.  Your walk with Jesus, though difficult now, will end in a glorious homecoming.

Prayer:
Savior Jesus, strengthen me as I follow you and cling to your promises.  Encourage me with the sure hope that the sacrifices of my walk with you now will be turned into perfect blessing when you welcome me into the glory of heaven.  Amen.

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