The gospels tell us that Jesus' disciples accepted their calling to follow him. They were with him constantly, which was not unusual back then for the students of great teachers.

Being followers meant that Jesus' disciples had given up their professions, along with other things. That's why the apostle Peter asked Jesus: "See, we have left all and followed you. Therefore what shall we have?" (Matthew 19:27). All of Jesus' disciples through the ages can ask that question. After all, Jesus does expect us to love Him more than anything else in this life: "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matthew 10:37-39).

Following Jesus means that our goals are not directed just to this life, but also – and primarily – to God's promises of a reward: "He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). We receive this reward in the next life. That's why Paul wrote: "If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable" (1 Corinthians 15:19).

Jesus didn't leave Peter wondering about his future. He told him about the future reward: "Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel" (Matthew 19:28). Jesus doesn't leave us wondering about our future, either: "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life" (verse 29).

That's why Paul could write these encouraging words: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58).

With these thoughts I wish us all a rewarding Sabbath!