What About Them?

Read

John 21:21-22 "When Peter saw him, he asked, 'Lord, what about him?' Jesus answered, 'If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.'"

Think

Most of us have watched a little league game. The compact baseball players sit on the bench for both sides, mostly fiddling and not paying attention. The coaches intently focus on the mini participants with the game plan etched on their brains. One competitor gets up to bat, with a teammate on base, and hits an incredible fly ball into deep center field. The base runner takes off, but he doesn't look at the coach. He is watching the ball and it will slow down his speed and may even keep him from scoring, because he’s not looking at the coach telling him precisely what to do.

This is what happened in John 21. Right before this, the resurrected Jesus had shown up and performed a miracle for his disciples fishing on the Sea of Galilee. When Peter discovered Jesus standing on the shore, he threw his net to the side and jumped in the water to get to him. Peter knew then what mattered most.

But, shortly after, Peter went from faith-filled to "What about me?" He began the comparison game and took his eyes off the coach. Following Jesus is a journey of faith. We trust that his plans are good; his game plan is best. When we keep our eyes on him, he will direct our steps and guide us home.

Apply

As you walk through your day, note each time you start playing the comparison game. How does this make you feel? Give your day to Jesus and trust him.

Pray

Father, I trust you with my life. Help me to keep my eyes on you. Give me strength and wisdom to follow you when I don't understand. Amen.