an amazing story

My Bible reading of late has consisted of trying to read through the Gospel of John. Shouldn't have taken me as long as it did--I can't ever seem to get into any sort of regular schedule in regards to Scripture reading. However, when I do actually sit and read and feel, I love it. I loved reading this book. The way John guides us through the story is so cool. I love the humanity that is displayed, not just by Jesus, but by the people that struggle to believe. The book gives two snapshots of denial and doubt toward the end--namely, Peter and Thomas. It's good for my soul to read about these guys. They were a bunch of scrubs and they changed the world. The fact that Peter follows Jesus at the end of the book, even though he has just been told how he is going to die is incredible. Peter has a very human response in light of this disconcerting revelation by Jesus...he wants to know what is going to happen to his buddy John. What about him? Is he going with me? Am I going to be all alone when this happens? Jesus tell me more. I imagine these thoughts were racing around in Peter's mind, as they would be in mine. Jesus doesn't answer the way Peter would like. His response is simply complex...YOU MUST FOLLOW ME. It's a command. It's an invitation. It's a recognition by Jesus that He has big plans for Peter and that He believes in him. I was reminded recently that we believe in Jesus, and well we should, but Jesus believes in us. He believes we can be used. I MUST FOLLOW HIM. It's what I must do, wherever that takes me. Hopefully He wants to take me to the mountains some day! :)