Then Peter responded and said to Him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Matthew 19:27-28).
Do not take this as a service and reward statement. Some do. We serve the Lord and just being in the kingdom is a great enough gift. The Lord is teaching us the principle that we are to serve one another. As our Lord has served us, so also, we ought to serve one another. To be an arbiter is not as we think of ruling. It is to be a peacemaker and one who protects relationships. Our Lord invites us to do the same.
Lord, You know that I see things in a worldly, sinful way. I think of ruling and power, but You have demonstrated first grace and mercy and then caring for others. I think of what I can gain, but You gave all You had away. I think of others looking up to me, but You have taught us that we are to love God above all things. Lord, help me to understand the truth of what You are teaching me.
Holy Spirit, You know where there are those places in my heart that are still steeped in pride and covetousness. Teach me the things I need to know. Help me to see things the way You have created them to be. Guide me along the path of becoming so that I do not impose any earthly things upon what You are doing in me. Help me to see and understand the abundance of grace and mercy that I need. Amen.
