Hundred fold Reward with Persecution and Eternal life in the Age to Come

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eighth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:28-31*

*First Reading : Sir 35:1-12*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 50:5-6, 7-8, 14 and 23*

*Hundred fold Reward with Persecution and Eternal life in the Age to Come*

*1) The Hundredfold Reward*

Jesus promises that whatever we give up for Him—family, home, possessions—He will return to us a hundred times over.

This reward is seen in two ways:

*Spiritual Family:* In Christ, we gain a new family in the Church—brothers, sisters, and mothers in faith who provide love and support.

*Divine Provision*: Though we may lose earthly possessions, God provides for our needs in ways we never expect.

In Acts 2:44-47, early Christians shared their possessions, fulfilling Jesus' promise of a new community where no one lacked anything.

*2) The Reality of Persecution*

Jesus does not promise a life of ease—He warns that persecution will come alongside blessings.

Why Persecution?

The world opposes Christ’s message (John 15:18-20).

A life devoted to Christ challenges worldly values (2 Timothy 3:12).

The apostles, despite their spiritual rewards, faced imprisonment and martyrdom (Acts 5:41).

Paul rejoiced in his sufferings, knowing they were part of his faith journey (2 Corinthians 12:10).

*3) The Cost of Discipleship: Sacrifice & Persecution*

Jesus made it clear that following Him involves suffering (Luke 9:23).

Mark 10:30 warns that blessings come *with persecutions*—true faith invites opposition (2 Timothy 3:12).

Yet, trials refine and strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4).

*4) The Ultimate Reward: Eternal Life*

While we experience both blessings and trials in this life, Jesus’ greatest promise is eternal life in the age to come.

Jesus contrasts the present age with *the age to come*, emphasizing that eternal life is the greatest gift.

This puts all suffering into perspective—earthly hardships are temporary, but the reward of being with God forever is eternal (Romans 8:18).

The rewards of this world are temporary, but life with God is everlasting (John 17:3).

*5) Present Day Persecutions*

*Physical Persecution* : In many countries, Christians still face imprisonment, violence, and even death for their faith.

*Social & Workplace Discrimination* This includes Job Loss or Workplace Hostility, Christian voices are sometimes silenced in media, Rejection by Family & Friends 

*Legal Problems*

Laws Restricting Christian Practices, Fines & Arrests for Biblical Beliefs, Harassment for believing Jesus, 

*Cultural & Ideological Pressure* Temptation to water down biblical truth to fit in with secular culture.

*6) How to Respond*

*Remain Faithful* – Jesus calls us to endure persecution for His name (Matthew 24:13).

*Pray for the Persecuted* – Support and intercede for those suffering for their faith (Hebrews 13:3).

*Show Love & Boldness*

 – Overcome persecution with Christ-like love and unwavering courage (Matthew 5:44).

*Trust in Eternal Rewards* – Persecution is temporary, but God’s reward is eternal (Romans 8:18).

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*