the promise of a hundredfold
"We have put aside everything to follow You!" —Mark 10:28
Who will 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 will 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 will be good at raising money for 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: During daily Mass, Maria prayed that her painful sore throat would be healed. Jesus removed the pain instantly as she received Him in Holy Communion.
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 31, 2011
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