Fools make comparisons

December 27, 2021 (Monday)

 

After speaking with Jesus, and being told about his death, Peter noticed John following them. “When Peter saw this disciple, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” [John 21:21 CEB] I think there is some irony in Peter’s question. Jesus has revealed the end of his life, now he asks about John.

 

I wonder if Peter wanted to compare himself with John. At least, from Jesus’ answer, it seems to be the case. Paul noted, “…But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.” [2 Corinthians 10:12b ESV] Paul is using sarcasm when he drafts his response to people who compare themselves with each other. The judgement that “they are without understanding” tells us they lack self-awareness. Okay, it’s a “gloss” meaning he thinks they are mindless and senseless.

 

Jesus’ answer to Peter is a stern rebuke, “Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain until I come, what difference does that make to you? You must follow me.” [John 21:22 CEB] In common English, He tells Peter, “ain’t none of your business.” The thing is we can get distracted when we have our eyes on others and not on Jesus. Okay, maybe distracted is being kind. We can go “off the rails” (derail) our spiritual life.

 

Some are not healed, while others are healed. Kind stinks when you are not the one healed, but what does that have to do with you? Absolutely nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zip. Zero. Your story is different than mine. God has a different purpose for all of us, so our stories will be different. Peter and John would glorify God in different ways! So will you.

 

Jesus drives His point home, “…“If I want him to remain until I come, what difference does that make to you?” [John 21:23b CEB] The correct answer is, nothing! Nada! Zilch! Zip! Zero!

 

When we understand that someone else’s story, or blessing, or path is not ours, we will be able to settle down and focus on Jesus. Doing that we discover we have our own story, blessing, and path. While it’s not like someone else’s, I think you will find it is just as amazing.

 

Or as the missionary’s say, “different is just different.”