«Peter turned around and saw behind them the disciples Jesus loved..Peter asked Jesus, «What about him, Lor?»Jesus replied, :If i want him to remain alive until I return,what is that to you? As for you, follow me»(John 21:20-22)
This is the last recorded question of Jesus while on earth as a man. Peter had just received the order to feed and care for the sheep. He had just renewed his pact with the Master. But he was still human.
For some reason, we are used to comparing ourselves with others or being curious or envious of their lives, wanting to be aware, even if that information is not always our concern.
We do not really know with what intention Peter asked this, but although he was firm in directing the direction of the conversation, Jesus confirmed once again his personal and unique call.
A year is ending. The first question God asks us in the Bible is: «Where are you?» The last one we find in the Gospels is, in a paraphrased way: «Will you follow me?»
“It is the duty of each one to follow Christ without undue anxiety about the task assigned to others. […] The future of John, as well as that of Peter, was in the hands of his Lord. The required duty of each of them was that they obey him by following him.
“How many today are like Peter! They take an interest in the affairs of others, and long to know their duty, while in danger of neglecting their own. It is incumbent on us to look to Christ and follow him. We will see mistakes in the lives of others, and defects in their character. Humanity is full of weaknesses. But in Christ we will find perfection. By contemplating it, we will become transformed ”(The Desire of All Peoples, p. 755).
Philip lived at the same time as Paul, and even began his ministry before him. We don’t see him intimidated or curious about Pablo’s performance. Philip faithfully fulfilled his task from the beginning as a man set apart for service; He preached to many people who were baptized, but he also preached to only one and baptized him. He preached on a desert road and in large cities. His daughters were prophetesses and he hosted Paul on one of his last trips.
Felipe was concerned to fulfill his part in his sphere of influence. It doesn’t matter if you are not a «Peter», a «Paul» or a «John». You can be a Felipe. Make sure you follow Jesus no more. more.
