Bible Society of South Africa

The age to come - 25 May 2023

By Xanthe Hancox

Bible text(s)

Mark 10

29“Yes,” Jesus said to them, “and I tell you that anyone who leaves home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and for the gospel, 30will receive much more in this present age. He will receive a hundred times more houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields — and persecutions as well; and in the age to come he will receive eternal life. 31But many who now are first will be last, and many who now are last will be first.”

Mark 10:29-31GNBOpen in Bible reader

When Jesus spoke these words, he was addressing his disciples’ concerns about the sacrifices they were making to follow him. He reassured them that those who leave behind earthly possessions and relationships for the sake of the gospel would receive abundant blessings in this life and eternal life in the age to come.

Following Jesus does not guarantee a life free from challenges or hardships. In fact, Jesus acknowledged that his disciples would experience persecutions along with the blessings. However, he assured them that the blessings far outweighed any temporary difficulties.

It’s important to note that the blessings Jesus spoke of are not limited to material possessions. The “hundred times” refers to the rich relationships and spiritual family we gain when we become part of God’s kingdom. As we embrace our identity as children of God, we are welcomed into a community of believers who become our brothers, sisters, mothers, and children. We also receive the inheritance of eternal life in God’s presence.

Today, let us reflect on the sacrifices we make for the sake of following Jesus. Let us find encouragement in the knowledge that God’s blessings are not only reserved for the future, but we can experience them in the present. May we embrace the relationships and provisions God graciously provides, even amidst the challenges we face. And let us eagerly anticipate the eternal life that awaits us in the age to come.

Prayer: Loving Father, thank you for the abundant blessings you bestow upon us as we follow you. Help us to trust in your faithfulness, especially during times of sacrifice and persecution. Open our eyes to the rich relationships and provisions you provide in this life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

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