John 21:22 – Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (NIV)

My two grandchildren are very competitive. The main phrase in their vocabulary is "It's not fair", referring to what one thinks the other is receiving that he's not getting.

This is characteristic not only of little brothers and sisters, but also of all of us. Even Jesus' disciple Peter, after being assured of Jesus' love, asked Him, "What about John?" Jesus replied, "What is that to you? You must follow me."

There's a little something in each of us that wants to be special. My grandchildren also insist on being first in whatever they do. As Jesus knew and as all parents learn, each disciple or child is important in his or her own way. To be fair, one must not choose a favourite. When a wise mother is asked to specify a favourite, she replies, "The one who needs me most at a particular time."

All people, while they may be created equal, are also created differently. Each has different talents, having been born into different situations and at different times and places. Each has his or her own road to travel. There are different challenges on each road and different jobs to be done. God knows our differences and rejoices in them. Why should we compare ourselves with others? We are all made in the image of God, but with differences. Accepting these differences is a lifelong challenge.

Prayer: Lord, we know You made us all differently, but there's something within us that wants to be special — to be first. Teach us, Lord, that we are all special in Your love, but You created us and made us into the individuals You wanted us to be. Help us to accept who we are, and make each of us the individual You created us to be. Amen.

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