There are times when someone mentions the sacrifices we as a family have made to serve overseas, and I feel guilty when I look around at our life that is just so… full. Then there are times when the full weight of the things it feels like we have given up to follow Jesus hits me like a ton bricks. 

When I'm in the season where the losses seem overwhelming, I am often reminded of the story of the rich young ruler in the book of Matthew, when Jesus reminds Peter and the rest of His disciples that those who have given up everything to follow Him will receive eternal life. 

But Mark's version of the same discussion has a very important addition that has totally changed my view on what we have given up in order to follow God's call. Jesus' answer to Peter's assertion that he and the other disciples have left everything is that anyone who sacrificed something to follow Him will receive a hundred times as much “in this present age” (Mark 10:29).  

Right now. Jesus is telling us that whatever we are asked to give up for the sake of following Him will be returned to us in some form in abundance. Of course, He's not saying that there won't be hardships and losses. We will also be persecuted, but following Jesus brings blessings, eternally of course, but also in the here and now.  

A mentor shared with me that being on the field allowed for a really special relationship between his children and their grandparents. Because of the distance, their times together were intentional, focused on the relationship and creating memories together. I've found that to be true with my children and their grandparents as well. So while we do sacrifice the day-to-day with one another, my kids have certainly gained a relationship with their extended family that they cherish and don't take for granted.  

It doesn't mean I don't miss my family or ache for my children when they weep when our visits with grandparents end. But Jesus’ words do serve as a reminder to me to notice the blessings that come from sacrificing for the sake of the gospel.