Suddenly, Jesus is there.
After his death, after his resurrection, Jesus shows up again for his followers. And each time it is a stunning experience for them.
Things haven't changed. When Jesus appears in our lives it still takes us by surprise. It could happen any moment, however ready we are – or not.
Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” (He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, “Follow me.”
John 21:18-19
Obedience to Christ does not guarantee that life will be a walk in the park. In fact, it may be just the opposite if the obedience of Jesus’ disciples is any indication. Jesus has hard words to say to Peter about his future, but the blessing of it all is that Peter has a part to play in bringing salvation to the whole world.
You and I may never do work that seems as significant as Peter’s, but that’s not the point. God does not have a measuring stick and is not comparing our spiritual growth alongside the growth of others. We do not have to worry about scoring in the 90th percentile and there are no prizes for first place. All that matters is our response to Jesus’ invitation: “Follow me!” The Holy Spirit is at work in every one of us and each of us has a part in expanding the kingdom of God. Every act of love and kindness we do in Christ’s name brings God’s salvation nearer to those we touch.
Tammy Wiens-Sorge
Lord, thank you for including me in the call to follow you. Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to guide my steps and to give me the faith and love I need to serve you well. Amen.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love....
He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far he removes our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:8, 10-12