Read Acts 28:16-20,30-31, Ps. 11:4-5,7, John 21:20-25
“When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, what about this man?’ Jesus said to him, ‘If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” (John 21:21-22)
After an unsuccessful attempt to return to fishing, Jesus appears again to the disciples. Three times, he asks Peter, “Do you love me?” This was to make up for the three times that Peter denied Him and each time, Peter responded: “Yes, Lord, you know I love you.” These questions must have made Peter so uncomfortable and put on the spot light.
It was now the turn of Peter to speak and instead of reflecting on the task ahead, he wanted to know about the fate of John. “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remains until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” (John 21:21-22).
Like Peter, some of us are not content with following Jesus, we are interested in knowing what becomes of our fellow Christians. Many of us today are busy judging and analysing others’ lives that we even forget the very purpose of our existence.
In as much as we are to encourage others to be holy and faithful in their Christian lives, we should never forget that holiness is not measured in comparison with others but how we measure up to the personal will of God for our lives. If a fish forgets his own purpose and attempts to start climbing trees that fish would not survive for long.
Paul knew his purpose. And he took advantage of every available opportunity to fulfil this purpose. Even with a soldier guarding him and following him everywhere he went, he still continued to preach the kingdom of God. Have I discovered my purpose in life? Am I minding my business or comparing myself with others?
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, fill me with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. Saturday of the 7th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 28:16-20,30-31, Ps. 11:4-5,7, John 21:20-25
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu