Daniel, given the gift of wise discernment, lived among fellow exiles in Babylonian captivity after the destruction of Jerusalem. He told the people to trust that God would not abandon them—even though they deserved as much for their disobedience. Jesus taught that God considers the way we treat people in determining how to treat us. Showing mercy, forgiving, and helping to alleviate the burdens of others all matter—especially in a spirit of humility. In a parable, our Lord described the heavenly reward of Lazarus, destitute and ignored at the doorstep of a man who later suffered in the next life for his selfishness. Jesus also told the parable of a prodigal son who repented, the eagerness of a father to welcome him back, and resentment of the loyal son who found the homecoming completely unfair. Imagine the discouragement that Jesus experienced when He told the Disciples of His impending suffering and death, and then fielded a request that James and John sit right beside Him in heaven. While living in hope of eternal life, how do we measure up to the standards set by Jesus?