We have Given up Everything - What will there be for us?”

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twentieth Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 19:23-30*

*First Reading : Jgs 6:11-24a*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 85:9, 11-12, 13-14*

*We have Given up Everything - What will there be for us?”*

*1) The Question*

The question *“What will there be for us?”* (Matthew 19:27) is one of the most human and honest questions in the Gospels. 

Peter voices what many people — including us today — often think but rarely say out loud. 

Its significance is deep and multi-layered, especially when viewed through the lens of discipleship, purpose, and trust.

*2) It Reveals the Tension Between Sacrifice and Reward*

Peter asked this question after Jesus challenged the rich young man to give up everything and follow Him. 

The disciples had done that — and now Peter wants to know: “What’s the outcome? What’s the point of the sacrifice?”

We often face this same tension:

If I live with integrity, even when it costs me, will it be worth it?

If I give up comfort to serve others or follow God, what will I get in return?

This question speaks to our need for meaning, not just in what we do, but in what we give up.

*3) It Validates the Struggles of Faithful Living*

We often give up things for our faith: time, comfort, money, relationships, status.

Peter's question reminds us that it's okay to ask if it matters. 

Jesus’ answer reassures us: yes, God sees your sacrifice, and it is not in vain.

God honors every cost we bear for His name.

*4) It Confronts Our Motives*

Peter’s question reflects a genuine concern, but it also reveals that he (like us) may still be thinking in terms of earthly reward.

Jesus uses the moment to shift the focus toward eternal values — not just what we get, but who we become.

Do we follow Jesus for what we gain, or because we love him?

*5) It Points Us to Eternal Perspective*

Jesus promises not only present blessings (“a hundredfold”) but also eternal life.

This helps us lift our eyes beyond the immediate cost to the eternal reward.

The Christian life may involve loss now, but it is never a losing path in the end.

*6) It Reminds Us That Jesus Is the Greatest Reward*

Eventually, the question evolves in the life of a disciple — from “What will I get?” to “Is Jesus enough for me?”

The deepest joy of following Jesus is not what we get from Him, but knowing Him

*7) It Encourages Perseverance*

When we are tempted to give up — when obedience feels costly or unnoticed — this question reminds us that:

God sees.

God remembers.

God rewards.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him.” — Hebrews 6:10

Keep going — your faithfulness has eternal significance.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*