In Acts 28 today, we see Paul continuing in his ministry, even while in custody. Oh, that we could all have the evangelistic spirit of St. Paul! In the Gospel reading from John 21, Peter sees John coming toward him and Jesus and asks Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus’ reply is interesting.
Jesus tells Peter, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is that of yours? You follow me.” Now, I don't think that Peter was being a busybody. I'm sure he was just curious as to John's fate. But it should serve to remind us not to be busybodies.
It’s an easy enough trap to fall into. Especially in the era of social media. We can anonymously follow people (or at least what people want us to know) without anyone knowing. And then it becomes easy (and, perhaps, dangerous) to compare our lives to theirs. Maybe the lesson here is for us to take care of our own back yards first, before worrying about others. Let's make sure we're heeding the call of Jesus - "You follow me."
Father, help us to not be busybodies worrying about others. Give us the grace to hear Your Son’s call to follow Him. Amen.
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