Into the Fire

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. . . .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 21:20-22 NIV)

What is it to you what the Lord might choose for another? Many times we have a hard enough time discerning what the Lord intends for us, let alone concerning ourselves with what another person must do. Many times we fret and fuss over how to succeed at what we’re doing. Is it good enough? Am I doing enough? What can I do to be more like so-and-so?

The conclusion to all of this consternation is that I must follow Jesus. Regardless of what others do, experience, celebrate, or are denied, I must follow Jesus. And if my path appears odd to some, ridiculous to others, or in dire need of renovation to a few, I must follow Jesus.

Even though we are a collective body of believers, it’s no secret to any of us how unique we are, how individual we remain in spite of our overall instruction to work together, to be a unit, and to find cohesion in the Spirit. The beauty of creation is to make us each a different specimen capable of being one in the Spirit—not always willing but capable just the same. We must follow Jesus. In our individuality and in our corporate abilities.

For of all the things that God is, He is not boring. And being The Creator, his elegance, simplicity, versatility, and complexity are indisputable and demonstrated continuously all over the face of this earth. And so it should be expected that His people would likewise show His handiwork through the talents He dispenses to them. The vast array of gifts on display and often hidden away in His people meant and designated to be used for His glory and for His pleasure in His timing allow us the bold freedom to declare His abundance and originality in our less than perfect expressions.

And so it remains: What’s it to you how God works in me? And what’s it to me how He chooses to work in you? All that matters is I must follow Jesus. And so must you.

In the Name of Jesus, Amen.