RENUNCIATION AND REWARD
The Promise of Christ
In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a profound exchange between Jesus and his apostles regarding the sacrifices they made to follow him. Peter, speaking on behalf of the Twelve, asks Jesus: “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” (Mt 19:27). This question reflects the very human concern about the consequences of their radical commitment to Christ.
The apostles had indeed left behind their livelihoods, families, and possessions to follow Jesus unconditionally. The Gospels recount how Peter and Andrew “immediately left their nets and followed him” (Mt 4:20) when called, and how James and John “immediately left their boat and their father and followed him” (Mt 4:22). Similarly, Matthew abandoned his lucrative position as a tax collector to become a disciple (Mt 9:9).
Such renunciation was not without its challenges. The apostles faced uncertainty about their future and likely encountered skepticism from family and friends. Their sacrifice echoes the words of Psalm 45:11: “Listen, my daughter, and understand; pay me careful heed. Forget your people and your father’s house, that the king might desire your beauty.” In following Christ, they were embracing a new identity and purpose.
Jesus responds to Peter’s query with a remarkable promise: “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Mt 19:28). This assurance speaks to the eternal reward awaiting those who faithfully follow Christ.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms the value of renunciation for the sake of the Kingdom: “The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle” (CCC 2015). It further teaches that “To follow and imitate Christ more nearly and to manifest more clearly his self-emptying is to be more deeply present to one’s contemporaries, in the heart of Christ” (CCC 932).
Christ’s promise extends beyond the apostles to all believers. He declares: “And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life” (Mt 19:29). This teaching underscores the abundant spiritual blessings and eternal reward that come from prioritizing Christ above all else.
REFLECTION
As followers of Christ in the modern world, we are called to reflect on our own commitment and willingness to renounce worldly attachments for the sake of the Gospel. While not all are called to literal poverty or to leave their families, all Christians are invited to cultivate a spirit of detachment and to place Christ at the center of their lives.
Let us consider:
1. What areas of our lives are we hesitant to surrender to God?
2. How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity and self-giving in our daily lives?
3. In what ways can we witness to the joy and freedom that come from following Christ?
As we contemplate these questions, may we be inspired by the example of the apostles and countless saints throughout history who have embraced radical discipleship. Let us trust in Christ’s promise of abundant life and eternal reward, finding courage to live out our faith with conviction and joy.
In the words of St. Paul, may we say with confidence: “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us” (Rom 8:18). As we journey through life, let us keep our eyes fixed on Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.