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In Hebrews 11 we read of the severe persecutions endured by faithful disciples of the early church. Some disciples became fugitives. Some were fed to lions and wild beasts. Some were sawed in two. Some were chained and imprisoned and others put to death by the sword. This list of heroes of faith gave many instances of sufferings and death for those who held on to their faith. Their example led many others to turn to God in faith to believe in Jesus. What’s the reason?
The Psalmist said that God’s loving kindness is better than life (Ps. 63:3). He treasures a continuous relationship with God and will do things to ensure this intimate fellowship with God. The disciple is given eternal life when he accepts Jesus as Lord and Saviour. He enters into a master-servant relationship with Jesus Christ. His duty is easy because he listens to one voice for instructions that are found in the Bible. His Master in turn takes care of all his needs and when problems and challenges arise, His Lord Jesus takes care of them. This close relationship with Jesus follows him to heaven. So whether he is on earth or in heaven this close relationship with Jesus continues seamlessly. Heaven is a place he looks forward to for his Lord Jesus Christ is there.
While on earth, the disciple is a creature of time. However, during his lifetime, he can make sense of his existence. Life has meaning – he can always enjoy and worship God. He and other disciples are part of the body of Christ – the Church. They can manifest the fruit of the Holy Spirit – love, joy, peace etc. These are the virtues that unbelievers long for and which wealth cannot satisfy or buy. The fruit of the Spirit can be experienced under all circumstances. This is the abundant life Jesus talked about. The disciple is called to be fruitful in the exercise of his God-given gifts to obey the Great Commandment and to do the Great Commission. His deeds follow him (Rev. 14:13) with eternal value. Through time and effort, he builds treasures in heaven and this pursuit directs His mind on things above. Earthly possession cannot follow us to heaven. Our aim in life should be to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ who alone can satisfy and meet all our needs. Jesus desires His joy to be in us and for our joy to be complete (Jn. 15:11).
