(Paraphrased scene from John 21:18-22)

Something was eating at Peter.

At suppertime, young John finagled a seat close to Jesus again — and Jesus treated him like a little brother! Why did he favor the kid so?

Peter discussed personal issues with the risen Messiah, — and noticed John listening.

He stuck a thumb in John’s direction and growled, “What about him, Lord?”

Jesus fixed the big Fisherman with a stern gaze. “If I want John to remain alive until I return, what is that to you, Peter? As for you, follow me.”

(Can you hear an affectionate “mind your own business” in Jesus’s voice?)

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Have you ever felt envious of a friend’s spiritual walk, or lifestyle, or health?

Lately I’ve been shoveling our snow-laden roofs, which is what I’ve done for 34 years here in the Great Land. Shoveling snow is part of the Alaska “mystique.”

I tend to measure myself by how other old guys hold up under negative temperatures and the physical strain of winter duties. Many have hung up their shovels by their 60s. Other old codgers surpass me in lung power and muscle strength, and ski and hike up mountain peaks. They put me to shame!

I admit that, sometimes, I compare myself with others — which is unreasonable. Even ridiculous! Because the individuals whose abilities I envy are UNIQUE. The youngsters and oldsters (more fit than myself) are one-of-a-kind — and so am I.

We are extraordinary — made by and for The Master Craftsman, himself.

Each one of us is phenomenal in our own way — created by God with abilities unique to our purpose and design. So, I shall mind my own business, and be contented with what this 67-year-old can accomplish — and call my grandsons to help clear the berm at the top of the driveway…

Galatians 6:4

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.