Always a Follower
Scripture: “Simon, son of John, do you love me? Feed my sheep. Follow me.” (John 21:17, 19)
Reflection: I can still picture my grade school class forming a neat and tidy line to follow our teachers in and out of the school building or church. As we got older, we were sometimes given the opportunity to lead that line of students: we felt so accomplished when it was our turn! Who didn’t want to graduate to head of the line? And yet, the final verse of today’s Gospel got me thinking about the value of being a good follower.
The dialogue between Jesus and Peter, including Jesus’ instruction to Peter to feed his sheep, is part of our understanding of the primacy of Peter and his role as a leader among leaders in the early church. Take note, though, that even the first universal pastor is instructed to be a follower of Jesus. Peter’s role is not about power but about always following Jesus.
But what does that following look like? Peter and the other leaders of the church follow Jesus through death and resurrection to be sure. They will also follow Jesus when they ponder and obey his teachings, when they provide food for the hungry to eat and living water for the thirsty, when they speak the truth in difficult situations, and when they humbly serve the least among us.
Such following does not signify weakness but is actually the key to leadership. Whether we are called to lead as bishop or pastor, or as a parent or teacher, we never stop being a disciple, a follower of Jesus.
Meditation: A disciple is one who follows, and a disciple of Jesus is one who follows Jesus. Unlike in a school setting where we find definite beginnings and endings, and where success is noted by reaching measurable goals, a disciple of Christ is always learning, responding, and learning some more. The measurable goal of a disciple is how we are continuously being transformed into the image of Christ who leads us. What are some of the ways that being a disciple tempers our egos and directs us toward humble service?
Prayer: O God, draw us near, and give us hearts for discipleship rather than power.
From Daily Reflections for Easter to Pentecost (Rejoice and Be Glad 2025) by Catherine Upchurch
