Feeling Shorted

By Words of Hope, Friday, January 16, 2009

Read: John 21:15-23

Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (v. 22 NIV)

As I got into bed, the covers came only up to my knees. I immediately knew what had happened. While my brother was unfolding the hide-a-bed in our vacation rental, he short-sheeted it. While feeling shorted in bed was hilarious, feeling shorted in life is not so funny.

After Jesus reinstated Peter, he told him that at the end of his life he would die a martyr. Brash Peter did not like that at all. He felt that he was going to get shorted. He immediately asked about John's fate. Jesus quickly stopped him from questioning. He did not want any comparing between disciples. He just told Peter that he must follow him.

I have learned that comparing only leads to discontent. If I start looking at others' skills and abilities in light of my own, I only feel sorry for myself. Then I have to realize again Jesus has tailor-made my life just for me. It is my job to do the best I can and keep following him.

Do you feel that life has shorted you? Maybe you need to do what Jesus was telling Peter. Stop looking at others and start living your own life for his glory.

Prayer: Lord, help me follow you, in my own unique way.

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