What about Him?

Reading: John 21; Proverbs 15 20 Peter turned around and saw the disciple Jesus loved following them—the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, “Lord, who among us will betray you?” 21 Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” 22 Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.” (John 21:20-22 NLT) Jesus had just given Peter the opportunity to renew his commitment as a disciple. The night before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter had three times denied he even knew Jesus. Now, as they walked together along the beach, Jesus had presented him three questions that allowed him to affirm his love and commitment, and Jesus had recommissioned him as a shepherd leader. Then Jesus told Peter that he truly would fulfill his calling and would one day die a martyr’s death for his faith. Moments later, Peter noticed John following them and asked Jesus, “What about him?” This isn’t the first time these verses have been my focus for the day and it probably won’t be the last! The question “What about him?” or “What about her?” is one of the most insidious distractions we face. We are so tempted to think, “Why does he get all the breaks?” or “Why does she always get the attention?” We can be so easily distracted by comparing ourselves with others, by comparing our situation and circumstances with theirs, or by wondering why it seems they get all the recognition while we do all the hard work! I’m going to recommend that we train ourselves to replace the “What about him?” question with “Thank you for loving me, saving me, choosing me! How can I serve?” 4 Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct. (Galatians 6:4-5 NLT) Why waste time, energy, or opportunity by comparing myself and my situation with others and their situations? There will always be some who seem to be “more blessed,” and always some who seem to face bigger challenges. I take Jesus’ words to Peter to my own heart today: “What is that to you? You follow me!” Will you pray this prayer with me… Father, I repent and turn away from comparing myself and my situation with others. I determine to remove the “What about him?” question from our conversation. Thank you for loving me, saving me, and giving me purpose. I will follow you wherever you lead. Amen!