trbccoffeebreak

“If I want him (John) to remain until I come, Jesus answered, “what is that to you? As for you (Peter) follow Me.” John 21:22 (HCSB)

The cover was beautiful; the back story intriguing. The perfect read. An hour later and that “perfect” read was much less than I had expected. The story line was boring, confusing and going nowhere fast. Luckily, I had lots of options filling my shelves so I made a quick switch and this time it delivered.

Ever wished your life story could be traded for a more glamorous, easy, picture perfect re-write? Or better yet, how about leaving our story behind and grabbing someone else’s? I’d have to admit there have been moments, yes days, where those thoughts entertained my mind. Easy to get lost in someone else’s story. Easy to picture perceived perfect lives when we measure them by Facebook posts, tweets, casual encounters and appearances. Easy to view our lives as less than if we’re always looking…desiring what we don’t have. Questions flood where doubts rise.

Love the way Jesus reminds us that “our journey” is priceless. Grateful for the mercy He showed Peter when John’s unknown destiny seemed too enticing. Backtrack just a few moments of Peter’s story and you find him in the presence of the risen Son of God. Fully restored, destined to feed Jesus’ sheep, but it would come at a price. Perhaps John’s story would have a grander, happier, easier ending – what about…..?

Jesus met Peter’s questions not with explanation but with a simple invitation “Follow Me.” “Don’t reach for someone else’s life……..keep your gaze fixed on Me and watch in amazement as your story unfolds.”

What about us? If we chose to “Follow Jesus” our cover will be beautiful; our backstory intriguing – it will be the perfect read.

“Sweet Jesus, the story of our lives unfolds day by day – moments we don’t want to miss because questions occupied our minds or discontent clouded our vision. Teach us to trust You with the unknowns and be fully satisfied.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Coffee Break