Alive - by Dave Smith

ace. In the age of social media, falling into this comparison trap has
become a whole lot easier!
But comparison is an age-old human problem. Having just
experienced a wonderful moment of restoration and recommissioning,
Peter gets distracted by comparing his own future with that of ‘the
disciple whom Jesus loved’. On one level this is entirely
understandable, given what Jesus told him about his own future:
‘“when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else
will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said
this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God.
Then he said to him, “Follow me!”’ (vv18–19). The reference to
Peter’s hands being stretched out probably alluded to his martyrdom
through crucifixion, which history bears out.
I don’t know about you, but I would have wanted to know as many
details as possible – as well as whether there was any possible way
of avoiding it! However, Peter immediately fell into the comparison
trap: ‘Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was
following them…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”’ (vv20–22).
Jesus’ simple question, ‘what is that to you?’ followed by a simple
exhortation ‘you must follow me’ is life-changing advice that will help
you and I avoid the comparison trap. Over the years, I’ve found that
the number one way for me to not compare myself with others is to
get a clear understanding of my own unique calling and pathway and
ask for the Holy Spirit’s help to live this out daily. This is something
that requires considerable effort, and will also necessitate others
helping us, but the results are worth it. (We’ll explore this more in
Chapter Five.)