Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!" Mark 10:28
Following Jesus has never been an easy proposition.
Though they saw Him every day, it was no easier for His disciples. One day, He spoke some very difficult truths to a rich young man about how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God, and His disciples seemed to question the wisdom of following Him. I can practically hear Peter shouting, "Now, wait just a minute! We have given up everything to follow You - our family businesses, our reputations, our futures, and now You start saying we might not see Your kingdom!"
Jesus assured them that they would receive what was promised. The problem was: they didn't understand the promise. The Kingdom comes with great joy - along with persecution and heartache. Nothing that is worthwhile is obtained without sacrifice. Eternal life was only made available by death. It stands to reason that they only way to live for Christ is to die to ourselves.
Lord, like Your disciples, I sometimes question if this is all worth it. Will I sacrifice everything to gain nothing in return? My human nature is selfish. In truth, I want to grab it all - to fulfill my earthly desires - AND receive Your Kingdom. But I cannot have both. I long to see Your glory, but I know I cannot see if if my eyes are closed. Help me to trust You - to empty myself - and to wait upon You.
Rabbi, I want to see.