Welcome, my dear friends, to another episode of "A Word from the Vine." I'm Pastor Loren Christensen of Danish Countryside Chapel. Today, we will be exploring the profound truth that we are chosen by God's love, despite our unworthiness.
In John 15:16, our Lord Jesus declares, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you." Ponder the immense significance of these words. It is not our own merit or worthiness that ushers us into God's presence, but rather the boundless grace and sovereign choice of our Heavenly Father.
Consider the remarkable example of the apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul, who zealously persecuted the early Christian church. Acts 9 recounts his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, where the resurrected Christ appeared to him and called him to become a herald of the Gospel. Despite Saul's past misdeeds, the Lord saw fit to reshape him into one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity.
As Romans 5:8 affirms, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This profound truth should instill within us a profound sense of thankfulness and humility. We did not earn or deserve God's love - it was freely given to us, even when we were undeserving.
Reflect upon your own journey of faith. Can you recall moments when you doubted your worthiness to receive God's love and grace? Yet, despite our flaws and shortcomings, the Almighty has embraced us, enfolding us in the warm embrace of His eternal affection. We are profoundly esteemed and held dear by our Creator, not because of what we have done, but because of who He is.
Let this realization fill your heart with gratitude and awe. May we never take for granted the incredible privilege of being chosen by the King of kings, called to bear lasting fruit for His kingdom. As we ponder the depths of His love, let us respond with lives of humble service and unwavering devotion.
Thanks for joining me today. Until next time, my friends, remember that you are chosen, you are loved, and you are called to bear witness to the transformative power of God's grace. May the Lord bless you and keep you, now and forevermore. Amen.
Comentarios