In today's gospel we hear in Peter's words that are the expression of someone who is looking for more: "We have given up everything and followed you." Isn't Peter's statement a question? Aren't his words the expression of someone not satisfied with what he has? Perhaps his sentence could be rephrased: "My friend, yes, we have turned away from our gobs and what we had to work with you. We've made sacrifices. Can we expect more than pipe dreams?"
Jesus, not one to back away from a challenge, makes it clear to Peter: the kingdom of God is truly unique. In the big picture what Peter and the other disciples have given up is insignificant compared to the extraordinary reward that will be theirs. The good things that belong to all of them in life thus far is hardly what awaits them.
Peter and all of us who might have doubts that seem to underlie his thoughts cannot forget that the life of a disciple is not a "quid pro quo" bargain. There will be days and moments of sacrifice but the reward that awaits is extraordinary. The here and now is never a garden of Eden.
It is the faith that assures Peter and the disciples as well as ourselves that trust and perseverance as a part of one's life. Can we not endure this?
