When Peter inquired of Jesus concerning the future ministry of John, the Master replied "What is that to thee? follow thou me." Perhaps Peter desired to know if John was to fill a more honorable position, perform a more important work, or would be called upon to drink less deeply of the Master's cup. But whatever his motive, Jesus regarded his question as one not deserving the answer he expected. The Master's reply was a loving rebuke. It was intended to remind Peter that the all-important thing for him was to live and demonstrate the Truth he had been taught by example as well as precept. This work faithfully done would occupy all his time, employ all his talents, and require the exercise of all the wisdom he possessed. Compared with the faithful performance of his own work, the thought of what John would or would not do was of little importance to him.
The Master's reply to Peter is one that each might well apply to himself when unnecessarily concerned about what another is or is not doing. He would much better accomplish his own work if he acted as though the Master's words were spoken directly to himself. The desire to do a work another is doing, because it seems easier or more important, or the desire to fill a position occupied by another because, to human sense, it is more honorable, will do much to hinder individual growth and retard the progress of any cause. Selfless labor for Truth and right is what is needed today more than anything else.
The thought of an all-wise, overruling Intelligence is set aside when mortals follow their own inclinations, for these frequently lead to strife, contention and rivalry. The omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence of God is lost sight of in the human struggle for place and power. Mortals will one day learn the folly of fighting against God and trying to resist the inevitable. The will of Omnipotence will be done for who "can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" Divine Mind governs the universe. Mortals will one day recognize this fact and be willing to give up human opinions and trust all things in the hands of God.
