Who will not receive many times more ...

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And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.” And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.”

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Peter's question is a visceral reaction to Jesus' declaration that it is difficult for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God. It is a reality check for all who follow Jesus expecting to be blessed with wealth. In truth following him has never been about giving to get. It has never been about being blessed or finding life in our possessions. The things that we receive from God in this life and in the life to come are spiritual and not physical - invisible and not visible.

The psalmist writes "Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!" People who follow Jesus at great cost experience a type of joy that is unknowable apart from knowing God. These experience a peace that is unknowable in the flesh and a loving acceptance that transcends their mortality. Jesus encourages his listeners, back then and today, as he teaches about the abundant and eternal rewards of denying ourselves, taking up our cross and following him.

Thank you Lord that you see the sacrifices that no one else can see.

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