“What Concern Is It of Yours?” by Melanie Rigney

 “What Concern Is It of Yours?” by Melanie Rigney

Saturday of the Seventh Week of Easter 

(Paul) remained for two full years in his lodgings. He received all who came to him, and with complete assurance and without hindrance, he proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 28:30-31)

The just will gaze on your face, O Lord. (Psalm 114:7b) 

Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved, the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper and had said, “Master, who is the one who will betray you?” 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.” (John 21:20-22)

Piety

Jesus, Your love is expansive beyond my comprehension. 

Study

When I was in my early teens, I had a best friend. But we ended up in different homerooms the following year and only saw each other for a class or two. She grew closer to two other girls than she was to me. When I blew up over some minor thing, she called me and apologized. But I didn’t accept and didn’t say so much as a hello to her for nearly a year. It eventually worked out without another conversation about whatever the specific issue was. But we were never as close again.

Jealousy is a soul-sucking thing. It is also a thief, robbing us of companionship and love. I like to think that Peter realized that once the Holy Spirit descended. I want to believe Peter realized that while Jesus had a special connection with John, the beloved disciple, He also had a special connection with Peter.  And with Andrew.  And with Matthew.  And so on and so on and so on throughout the centuries. Jesus’ connection isn’t based on physical appearance or worldly wealth or brainpower. It’s based on a sincere, unique love for each and every one of us if we’re willing to embrace it. 

It’s kind of like that friendship I blew away over jealousy, but different in a very important way. As I said, our friendship recovered, but it was never the same again. With Jesus, when we express the error of our ways and seek His help, the relationship is well on the way to being richer and deeper than it was before.

Action

Stop attempting to be like the disciple Jesus loved best. Be you.

 

Image credit is Thomas Wolter via Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/photos/eye-tear-jealousy-jealous-sad-4421552/.