A reading from the conclusion of the holy Gospel according to John 21:20-25
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."
So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die. But Jesus had not told him that he would not die, just "What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?" It is this disciple who testifies to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true. There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.
Reflection :
“Jesus said to him, "What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me."
In the book of John, Jesus had just given Peter the instructions to “feed my sheep”. Jesus gave Peter plenty to think about, however as most of us are, he was concerned about others. Looking around, Peter asked Jesus what He had in store for his most beloved disciple, John. Jesus doesn’t hesitate to redirect Peter, reminding him to keep his focus on the instruction he gave him.
This passage helps me to clearly see how Jesus has something for all of us. Each person is given what God wills for that person and we should not be looking at our neighbor. Sometimes to follow Jesus means to have a different path than our friends and relatives. Our paths can cross or intertwine, but they still remain our own journey with Jesus.
This reading is the last message in the book of John. It is the final instructions Jesus gives us in our walk with Him. Follow me. I suppose that is all we need to know to do the will of God.
