Reflecting on John 20:1-10“So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved…(John 20:2)
There is something humourous about how Peter and John relate.
It is commonly understood that John was “the one Jesus loved”.
We see a competitive rivalry between them, trying to be first.
Peter no doubt felt shame because of his strong denial of Jesus.
And what was John trying to prove, calling himself “the one Jesus loved”.
This competitive spirit still infects Jesus followers today.
I know for myself I make comparisons with other’s faith and devotion.
I also find myself trying to show that my faith is real and good enough.
And I have felt other christians looking down on my faith and devotion.
This is so wrong: no one should feel less, no one should feel loved more!
Yes, John was the one Jesus loved, but so was Peter, and Judas, and all of us!
Jesus will have a different relationship of love with each one of us.
And we will relate to Jesus differently as well, through our unique personalities.
No christians are loved more, no christians are loved less – all are loved!
I can say that I am the one that Jesus loved… and so can you!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, forgive us for feeling less or more as Your followers. Help us to stop competing with or diminishing other disciples. May we all rest in this word, that we are all 'the one Jesus loved!'
As a father who loves his children,Jesus loves all of His children as He said, ‘Let the little children come unto me.’ All His children are precious in His sight as allmy children are precious to me, loving each with their own personality.