DuPage
Being a disciple of Jesus may lead us to be rejected and lonely. A disciple may not be accepted by those whom one might expect to be the closest, like their family (35). During persecution and trials, they may even be betrayed by the very people they trusted, and they may even see them testify against them (36).
Choosing to follow Jesus despite the opposition of loved ones is painful (37). The truth draws a clear dividing line, and each must decide which side to stand on. Following Jesus means accepting the burdens and potential hardships that may accompany discipleship (38) and being ready to give up the safety and comfort the world offers (39).
However, our pilgrimage as disciples of Jesus may not be entirely lonely, as we welcome one another in the name of the Lord and serve one another with the love Jesus has shown us (Jn 13:34). We each welcome Jesus into our hearts as we welcome the fellow disciples of Jesus with our five loaves and two fish. We share the reward in heaven (42).
Apr 30, 2026
SHARE IN JESUS’ REWARD
Passage: Matthew 10:34-42
Key verse: 42
NIV
chapter 10
34. "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.
35. For I have come to turn "’a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law -
36. a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’
37. "Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
38. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
39. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
40. "Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.
41. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.
42. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward."
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Prayer: Father, thank you for calling me to follow you. It is my privilege to live as your disciple in this generation. Please help me continue to pray for those who reject the truth, while making it my priority to follow you and serve your people.
One Word: Share in Jesus’ reward