"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.” (John 21:21-22)
John is the only gospel writer that writes about the restoration of Peter and Peter's call, along with the details of how Jesus confirmed the mission of John and Peter. John probably wanted to set the record straight that the call to Peter was established as the rock on which the church would be built.
Our Identities
The disciple whom Jesus loved is the author of the Gospel. John refers to himself as the 'disciple whom Jesus loved' to represent what is true of all disciples. We are all to find our identity first and foremost in the fact that Jesus loves us. John describes himself not by giving his name, family connections, or occupation but by affirming Jesus' love. Just as the Beloved Disciple finds himself 'leaning on Jesus' bosom' (John 13:23), and the Messiah finds His identity 'in the bosom of the Father' (John 1:18), we are to find our identity in Jesus' love for us and the Father's love for us through Jesus. This love is the source of our identity and the motivation for our lives, and we work out this love in our activity in God's creation.
Our Doubts and Questions
In this passage, Jesus answers a question with a question, which is a classic dialogue between Jesus and a disciple. Peter asks a direct question, but Jesus does not give a straight answer. Jesus often avoids direct answers for two reasons. First, there are no direct answers when it comes to God because God cannot be fully understood or explained by the finite human intellect. Second, good teachers always draw students into better questions, and this is especially true with God. Jesus invites us into a dynamic relationship with God, where our understanding continually grows and expands.
When Peter asked about the disciple whom Jesus loved, Jesus told him to focus on his own mission and follow Him. Jesus wanted Peter to understand that he should not be concerned with what others are called to do but concentrate on his own call and task. Comparing oneself to others and being distracted by their mission can be dangerous and not Christ-like. Our task is to follow Jesus and help each other along the journey, not to judge or compare ourselves with one another.
Our Mission and Our Call
The story of Moses is a great example of someone who initially hesitated to accept the mission God gave him. Moses had doubts and insecurities, but God reassured him and supported him. Sometimes we may feel inadequate or ill-equipped for the tasks God sets before us, but we can trust that He will empower us and guide us along the way.
A good leader works with the workers and leads by example. There is an interesting story about a man in civilian clothes who during the American Revolution rode past a group of soldiers repairing a small defensive barrier. Their leader was shouting instructions, but making no attempt to help them. Asked why by the rider, he retorted with great dignity, “Sir, I am a corporal!” The stranger apologized, dismounted, and proceeded to help the exhausted soldiers. The job is done, he turned to the corporal and said, “Mr. Corporal, next time you have a job like this and not enough men to do it, go to your commander-in-chief, and I will come and help you again.” It was none other than George Washington.
Our Distractions
We must not allow our curiosity about others to distract us from following the Lord. While we have a responsibility to care for one another, comparing ourselves to others and meddling in their business can divert our attention from our own call. Our focus should be on Jesus, not on what others are doing or what ministries they have. Instead of complaining or grumbling about what seems unfair, we should concentrate on serving others and spreading love and compassion to the world. Following Jesus and fulfilling our own mission should be our primary concern.
God has His plan for us and for our Christian friends and associates. How He works in their lives and us. Indeed, we naturally compare ourselves to others and wonder about their callings and ministries. However, as you mentioned, we need to focus on our own call and task. God has a unique plan and purpose for each of us, and our responsibility is to follow Him faithfully in the path He has set before us.
It's also worth noting the importance of not being distracted by what others are doing or the circumstances around us. Comparing ourselves to others or seeking validation from external factors can hinder our focus and obedience to God's calling. Our primary focus should be on following Jesus and serving others with love and compassion, regardless of the situation or setting.
Our Blinders
The analogy of blinders is a powerful reminder to keep our focus on Jesus and His leading. Blinders are a piece of horse tack that restrict the horse's vision to the rear and, in some cases, to the side. They usually are made of leather or plastic cups that are placed on either side of the eyes, either attached to a bridle or to an independent hood. Many racehorse trainers believe these keep the horse focused on what is in front of him, encouraging him to pay attention to the race rather than other distractions, such as crowds. Additionally, blinders are commonly seen on driving horses, to keep them from being distracted or spooked, especially on crowded city streets.
The challenge for Peter is to take his attention off the sufferings and trials that he has to face. Another thing He’s telling Peter here, in a sense, is to be single-minded. In other words, don’t worry about what you cannot fully understand. Your job is to follow me. Implicit in that is also the idea that because He’s God, because He’s sovereign, and all that entails, we can trust Him.
By fixing our eyes on Him, we can avoid being swayed by distractions and remain steadfast in our faith and commitment.
Ultimately, the message is clear: follow Jesus. Trust in His guidance, stay committed to your own call, and serve others with love and compassion.
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