“I am the vine; you are the
branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart
from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 (NIV)
After
listening to the reading from John 21 this morning, I became rather excited,
anticipating the pastoral message. Surely his message would cover the three
times Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him, and I’d be able to finish writing one
of my devotions. Imagine my surprise as the pastor began to share his thoughts
on another section of the passage, where Peter takes his eyes off Jesus and
looks at John.
Peter turned and saw that the
disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned
back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray
you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered,
“If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must
follow me” (John 21:20-22).
Follow
Jesus.
It
sounds simple enough, but sometimes feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty slither
uninvited into my mind, overwhelming and distracting me. And instead of looking
to the One who laid the earth’s foundation, I begin to look around me. Why does
this cycle seem to repeat itself so easily?
Today
I was reminded that our ability to do what God has called us to do is not
dependent on us, our strengths or weaknesses, but is dependent on His strength
and our willingness to take up our cross daily and follow Him.
Precious Lord, As we press on
toward the goal You have planted within our hearts, grant us the courage and
confidence to keep our eyes fixed on You.
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