7th Week of Easter (Mass in the Morning)
What concern is it of yours? You follow me. (John 21:22)
How often do you compare yourself to someone else? Like Peter, you might say to yourself, “What about him?” But what starts out as innocent curiosity can often lead us down a path of unhelpful, divisive thinking. So often, when we see someone we think is doing better than we are, we begin to desire the things they have: a nicer house, perhaps, or a more prestigious job or better health. Even more faith.
But Jesus turned Peter’s question on its head: “What concern is it of yours?” he asked. “You follow me” (John 21:22).
These are the exact words we need to hear when our own thoughts lead us into comparison and envy. Why?
First, because Jesus has a mission for each of us. He wanted Peter to focus not on John but on his own calling to lead the Church by tending his sheep (John 21:16). Similarly, Jesus doesn’t want us devoting so much of our energy to thinking about what someone else has or what they do. He’d rather we think about how we can serve him in our own situations. What is the best way I can build the kingdom of God right here and right now?
Second, because only Jesus can fulfill the deepest desires of our hearts. The things we see that others have can’t really satisfy us. Neither can their status or their callings or their gifts and talents. Only God can truly satisfy us.
So the next time the question “What about him?” comes to mind, ask yourself this: “What about me? Am I following Jesus the best I can? Are my thoughts about this person helpful and upbuilding?” If you think you might be veering toward comparison or envy, refocus on Jesus. Thank him for the calling and talents he has given you. Share your thoughts with him and wait for him to respond. Perhaps he wants to give you his peace. Maybe he has a fresh way of helping you to look at your circumstances.
And most of all, take Jesus’ words to Peter as your own: “Follow me” (John 21:22). Keep your focus on Jesus and keep serving him. He will lighten your heart as you do.
“Thank you, Jesus, for all the ways you provide for me. Help me to keep my eyes on you.”
Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
Psalm 11:4-5, 7
