Just in case you’re tempted to compare yourself to another, Peter makes that mistake for the rest of us. And his blunder remains recorded in Biblical ink. Lucky him.
After Jesus’ arrest, trial, death, and miraculous resurrection, He appears to his closest disciples over a period of 40 days to give final instructions. Peter is relieved to snag some one-on-one time with his mentor. After that whole “pretend-like-you-don’t-know-Jesus-three-times” thing, he’s anxious to apologize. But at the end of a healing conversation in which Jesus gives Peter an important calling, Peter steals a glance at John, who is following close behind. And with a whisper, voices his childish curiosity: “Lord, what about him?” (vs. 21)
Jesus’ response is short, sweet and without a chance for misunderstanding: “What is that to you?” (vs. 22)
Peter, Peter. Get a clue. You’re not in charge here; I AM. Stop checking out the competition and keep your eyes on me. Didn’t you learn this lesson already when you tried to walk on water?
He sure did. But like the rest of us, sometimes the lesson takes a couple tries before it sticks. How about you? Still checking out the competition?
- Day 323 (Monday): Acts 9-10
- Day 324: Acts 11-12
- Day 325: Acts 13-14
- Day 326: James 1-5
- Day 327: Acts 15-16
- Day 328: Galatians 1-3
- Day 329: Galatians 4-6
What a challenge! Keep your eyes on Jesus.
And what reality check! Still checking out the competition?
This is the root to many heartaches, jealousy, envy, strife, bitterness… (Sounds like the works of the flesh.)
Thanks Michele. I need this reality check.
Preoccupation with others, rather than working on my own junk, is never a good idea. 🙂 Unfortunately, I’ve done it more than enough times.