Peter began to say to Jesus, 'We have given up everything and followed you." (Mk 10:28)

 

The set up for today’s gospel reading is the story of the rich man who asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life.  Jesus replies that he must go and sell all that he has and give to the poor.  The rich man goes away dejected.  Jesus tells his disciples that “It is easier for a camel to pass through [the] eye of [a] needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:25).  It is in this context that Peter says to Jesus, “We have given up everything and followed you.” In other words, “What about us?” Jesus’ replies that for everything that one gives up for Him and for the Gospel, they will receive a hundred time more.  For those who take up their cross and follow Jesus in this life, the reward is great in the next.  

 

Walking with Jesus can mean we suffer hardships, but the benefits outweigh the burden of carrying our crosses because we don’t carry them alone. Jesus accompanies us through our pains and gives meaning to our sorrows. When we offer our lives to Jesus, we gain the joy of his friendship, which is a priceless treasure, and we receive an inheritance in heaven which lasts forever.

 

Today, let us pray for the grace to be able to follow Jesus, no matter the cost.

 

Deacon Joe Trevino

St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church

Houston, TX