Jesus talks about eternal rewards for works done in this life and then He says, “Thereare some standing here that shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom” (Matt 16:27-28).

What does this mean?

Many scholars believe Jesus is talking about the disciples who will witness the transfiguration talked about in the very next verses in Matthew 17.

At the very least, we can take from this that following Jesus is about denying self and obedience but there is also reward. One day our faith will see what our minds can barely begin to imagine.

Back in chapter 5, we read, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:10)

One day the Kingdom of God will be with man.

One day the Savior will come with His angels and the things of this world that get us down will be no more.

I think it was intentional of our Savior that He brought up eternal reward right after He brought up the suffering that sometimes comes with obedience.

For our Jesus, it was the JOY set before Him that He endured the Cross.

And it can be the same for us. For when we take the long view, the eternal view, problems of this life will hold their proper perspective.

This mindset helps us care more about eternal things and not let the temporary bother us as much. This helps us keep walking in joy and peace. and that’s no small thing.

So as we take up our crosses to daily die to self let’s also keep our eyes on the prize…the JOY that our Lord has set before us!

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