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It’s Worth It
Peter is so great a model for us. He makes the days of Christ so personable to me. I think it is easy to identify with how confused Jesus kept him. Here we have Jesus, just a couple of verses before, telling the ruler that he must give up all his wealth and follow. The ruler can’t accept that and sadly departs. Then Peter, looking for assurance, says, “Hey, we gave up everything and followed. So we’re good right? Right?” Jesus does as he usually does and gives Peter, and us, a non-direct answer. He says, “Anything you give up for the kingdom does not compare to what you will receive from God.” Jesus is not saying if you give up your family I will provide another one for you. He is talking about Salvation. He is saying that Salvation is so important that nothing else is even close.
On the surface Jesus is pointing out that he will call us to alter our lives and that He will take care of us. On a deeper level He is telling us that it is worth the risk of giving up all that we have to follow Christ. Many Christians sacrifice tremendously every year. I’m not talking about giving up something for Lent or swearing off R-rated movies. People lose spouses, parents, careers and their lives because they willingly choose to follow Christ.
Jesus’ words here tells us that it is worth it. Your sacrifice, whatever the cost, is worth Salvation.
Eric, you bring truth home. It is worth the sacrifice. But my human inclination is to be like Peter and come up with ways or things to “give up” so I can be blessed. I need to always remember that I am not the one who decides what to give up – He will call me and when He does, I will know what it is that I am to give up. Salvation is worth sacrifice and so is my walk with Him.