7TH WEEK OF EASTER

What concern is it of yours? You follow me.

Peter seemed to be falling prey to it: the tendency we all have to wonder what’s going to happen in someone else’s life. Jesus had just asked Peter three times “Do you love me?” and predicted “by what kind of death [Peter] would glorify God” (John 21:15-17, 19). It must have been an emotionally charged, deeply personal moment for Peter. But then he looked over his shoulder, saw John, and asked, “What about him?” (21:21).

The truth is, as with Peter and John, Jesus has a particular individual plan and mission for each one of us. Of course, God desires that every person be saved. But what that looks like in each life will be different. In the same way that no two people are alike, God’s plan for each person is distinct.

That’s why worrying about someone else’s calling is a waste of time. At best, it can distract us from what God is asking us to do. But that kind of comparison can also make us ungrateful for God’s work in our own lives. It can drive a wedge between us and other people. It can even lead to gossip, envy, or bitterness (John 21:23).

So what should we do? Listen to Jesus when he says, “You follow me” (John 21:22, emphasis added). When you see that parishioner who always seems to have the pastor’s ear, or that family member who seems to have a more peaceful life than you, or your coworker who always seems to know the right thing to say, don’t let comparison steal your joy. Instead, consider: Are you following Jesus? Are you doing what he is asking you to do?

Because the truth is, Jesus has a specific, essential calling for you. So when he says, “You follow me,” try your best to do what he’s asking of you. You can trust that the part you play, the job he gives you to do, will be critical in building his kingdom.

“Lord, I love you and want to follow you. Help me keep my eyes on you.”

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
Psalm 11:4-5, 7
John 21:20-25