the promise of a hundredfold
"We have put aside everything to follow You!" —Mark 10:28
Who would be great evangelizers, begetting hundreds of children into God's kingdom? (see Phlm 10) Those who have given up natural children become great evangelizers by deciding to be celibates for God's kingdom (Mt 19:12), for Jesus has promised them a hundred times as many children (Mk 10:30).
Who would be gifted to build Christian community—to help us practically live out our baptismal brotherhood and sisterhood? Those who have given up their brothers and sisters for the sake of Jesus and the gospel have special graces to build community, for Jesus has promised them a hundred times as many brothers and sisters (Mk 10:30).
Who would be good at raising money for your church or ministry? Those who have given up property for Jesus receive this charism, for He has promised them a hundred times as much in this present age and everlasting life in the age to come (Mk 10:30).
Jesus' promises are true, but some promises are only for those who qualify for them. It is such a privilege to be called by the Lord to give up someone or something for Him and thereby qualify to receive His promise of a hundred times as many in this age and everlasting life in the age to come.
Prayer: Father, may I take advantage of every precious opportunity to give up something for You.
Promise: "Do not yield to the desires that once shaped you in your ignorance. Rather, become holy yourselves in every aspect of your conduct after the likeness of the Holy One Who called you." —1 Pt 1:14-15
Praise: John, a Belgian youth, left his family and country to follow the call of Jesus to be ordained as a priest. He recently baptized his one-hundredth adult catechumen since beginning his mission to the USA.
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Edward J. Gratsch, October 10, 1995
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 13, 1995