The last, first.

Mark 20:29-31, Jesus said, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the gospel’s sake, but that he shall receive a hundred times as much now in the present age, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and farms, along with persecutions; and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first, will be last; and the last, first”

It’s popular to preach the benefits of coming to Christ, sometimes called the prosperity gospel. Certainly there are incredible benefits, not only those to come, it’s just a better way to live, and certainly we receive a hundred fold even now. However, if Jesus suffered the incredible persecution and humility of the cross, we shouldn’t be surprised if persecution comes. Certainly we don’t need to go looking for it, but we can be certain that He will be with us, and that even though it might look like we’re coming in last, He makes us come in first.

We thank You for the hundred fold blessings that we receive and we put all our trust in You, Lord Jesus; only You can carry us through whatever may happen.