Endure to the End

But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Mt.10:22

Jesus warns his Apostles, and us, that being a follower will attract discrimination and hardship. So why follow him? The only honest answer I have... to be saved.

Being a Christian is no picnic in the park. Yes it's exciting, fulfilling, full of joy and hope, but a cakewalk? No.

Jesus says very clearly that being a follower of him requires endurance. This implies withstanding challenges or continuing to thrive despite them, as in "a love that endures" or "to endure a long delay". 

The saints are wonderful examples of what living with endurance to the end can look like, as with Saint Stephen. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and gazed into heaven seeing the glory of God! 

I can recall my life without Jesus. I was simply existing. Give me enduring any day!

Saint Stephen, please pray for us.