Beyond my expectation
Speak to me by name, O Master,
Let me know it is to me. Frances Ridley Havergal
Read Matthew 19:27—30
I know a little of Peter’s back story. He took a first step that now looks as though it’s becoming a life decision for him and a world decision for us. He left the fishing business to go with Jesus. Now he can see what it is that he has done: ‘We have left everything.’ He did not set out with that in view. He had no intent to emerge with legendary status. He must have been curious as to where Jesus would lead, and he had to know that his relation to God was being modified somewhat in the process. But now to be told that he has a part to play ‘at the renewal of all things’ — I think I just heard him gasp. I still think of Peter as a very humble, brusque fellow human. And I’m getting an inkling that the call I have heard to follow Jesus is putting me on a like course, far beyond any career goal I could plan. The renewal of all things!
Lord Jesus Christ, I have heard the call to follow you. I thank you that you have wanted me. You know your own and your own know you, and they listen to your voice.[1] If I have been aware of your voice today, I thank you. It is a precious thing to hear the voice of my Lord in the midst of an active day. You promise me an inheritance far beyond any expectations of my own. It comes as the fulfilment of your saving purpose. Somehow I sense that I will know this inheritance as my own. Yet I see that my way to it lies in seeing ahead only to the next day and following you only in the next step.
[1] John 10:14,16