And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.
The economy of God operates in the reverse manner to the things of the world. In the kingdom of God “everyone who has left…” something of value to follow Jesus, does not end up with less but actually ends up with more.
In following Jesus there is cost involved and that cost is paid in terms of things valued in this world. But there is also a reward that is also given and that is paid in terms of things of eternal value. The cost is immediate, but the reward is delayed. Because of this lag, it can appear it is a one way transaction.
But Jesus reminds us, if you have left something or lost something of value in this life to follow me – a relationship, family, your career, finances, opportunities, social standing, whatever it might be – you can be assured you will be richly rewarded for your courage and your faith. In fact, He quantifies it! You will be 100 times better off by following Jesus through His promise of eternal life.
Consider that for a moment. Consider those who seem to have what you’ve given up. Be it a career, a relationship, an income level, a lifestyle etc. Those people may appear to be ahead of you in life, but Jesus says the opposite is true.
Jesus says for those that seem to live the richest lives, and appear to be at the top of the social and economic trees, unless there is a willingness to sacrifice it for His sake, then they will be last. Whilst those that gave up things of earthly value for Him, they will be first.
Where do you want to come in life? First in the world’s eyes, or first in God’s eyes?
PRAYER: Lord, I thank you for showing me how to live through the life of your Son. I give you my life and all that’s in it today. I humble myself under your Lordship and ask you to lead me and speak to me and make my life count for things of eternal value. I love you Father, Amen
