Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
October 31, 2021
Read John 21:20-23
20 Peter turned around and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them. This was the one who had leaned against Jesus at the meal and asked him, “Lord, who is going to betray you?” 21 When Peter saw this disciple, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” 22 Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain until I come, what difference does that make to you? You must follow me.” 23 Therefore, the word spread among the brothers and sisters that this disciple wouldn’t die. However, Jesus didn’t say he wouldn’t die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what difference does that make to you?”
Good Morning! Happy All Hallow’s Eve!
How many times do children complain when they perceive something as unfair? As a mother, grandmother, and teacher, I know this is a common occurrence. Often, when a child is called out for a misdeed, the first words from the child are, “But he did it too!” or “She did it first.” As adults, we tell the child that they should only be concerned with their own misdeed.
We would love to tell ourselves that this “childish” habit goes away when we are adults. It may not be as prevalent, but think of a time when you receive a parking or speeding ticket. I admit that in the moment I have looked around and noticed others doing the same thing. When many cars are speeding, why is one singled out to receive a ticket? Many years ago, I parked my car in downtown Indianapolis to view Christmas Caroling on the circle. When I returned, an officer was about to ticket my car for parking in a limited time parking place. Without thinking, I pointed out to the officer that I didn’t see the sign and that there were other cars parking here as well. Of course, I got that same response to worry about my own vehicle. Fortunately, he was kind enough to let me get in my car and leave without a ticket.
Jesus calls us to follow him and work to be better Christians as we journey through life. As Jesus shared with Peter, it shouldn’t be our concern if some are blessed differently than we are. We are each given our portion of blessings as we are ready to receive them. We must not be envious of others because we don’t know what challenges are present in their lives. Jesus calls us to follow him and be diligent on our own paths.
Loving God, Thank You for loving us. Help us to be accepting of others and not judge them for their actions. May we be joyful in our own abundant blessings. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: I am called to follow Christ.
I have decided to follow Jesus! Pastor Liz
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