Chosen

I’ve been reflecting lately on how the Bible is truly a living Word, and how God speaks to us through it differently at different moments in time. Yesterday we looked at one example. Today, let’s take a look at another verse. 

In the Gospel of John (chapter 15), on the night of his betrayal and arrest, Jesus said to his disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you.” 

I can only wonder how the disciples heard that. I wonder if they could begin to see themselves as being caught up in a divine purpose; that they were there for a reason beyond themselves. Perhaps they didn’t understand at all… I wonder.

And then we might wonder about John’s community…As they heard these words, did this give them any kind of encouragement to stand firm in the face of their own persecution?  We’ve been chosen for this…  I’ve been chosen for this… 

And again, what about us today? 

What does it mean to be chosen? 

This question makes me think about Elementary School. In Physical Education Class, the coach would pick two captains and they would get to choose their teams. At that age, I was wearing these thick “Coke bottle” glasses – and I was always one of the last to be chosen.

But Jesus has chosen to me… And you. 

What does it mean to be chosen? In a culture that is all about individual choice and autonomy, it raises some questions. What are we doing here? Did we make the choice to follow Christ – or did he choose us?  Are we caught up in some divine purpose – larger than ourselves? Are you here at this time and place in your life for a reason? 

What has he chosen you for? 

What is God’s Word saying to you today?

Let us pray:  We thank you, O God, once again for your love for each one of us. And we thank you for calling us to be a part of something larger than ourselves. Attune us to your will, and grant us willing hearts to respond. Amen.