The WORD today (see http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/060714.cfm) reminds me that we should not compare ourselves with others.
In sports, what is usually told to a nervous athlete is that the real competition is not with the one on the ring, the field, or the court. The real competition is not with your opponent, but with yourself. We tend to always look at others, how good they are and how we can beat them, but the real competition is with oneself - how much you give and what you do, if you gave your best, your all. This is applicable in life as well, and this is what Jesus told Peter in the gospel.
Coming from yesterday's gospel, Jesus told Peter how he will live and die. Then Peter saw John, and asked how about John, how will he die? Will he experience challenges too?
"When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me.”
Jesus did not assure Peter that like him, John would experience challenges and die serving. Instead, Jesus told Peter to not mind other things and focus on himself and his call to serve God. This is also what Jesus is telling us. Do not compare yourself with others. Do not dream of being better than others or make sure you are not on the losing end of the bargain. Do not be envious of others. Instead, focus on what you are being called to do. Follow Jesus.
May we learn to focus on the task God is giving us, and not compare our tasks or service with others. Just focus on Him.
Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to love and serve you. Lord, thank you for being a personal God. Thank you for taking care of and providing for my needs. May I always focus on you and not on others. I promise to give you my best in whatever little or big thing you ask of me. Amen.
Blessed day!
In Christ,
-g-
No comments:
Post a Comment