January 2
Scripture: Lam 3:23
Source author: Lloyd O’Donnell
January 12
Chosen by Him And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. —Romans 8:30
I remember the moment like yesterday. I had applied to a seminary—only one—to study for the ministry. I heard one of the seminary teachers preach on several tapes. He made me laugh, cry, and feel emboldened to live more strongly for Christ. When I applied, the seminary dean informed me I was very late. They’d already selected most of the incoming class, and he recommended I apply for the next semester. After praying, I decided to go for it. The wait was awful. But one day I received a letter from the school. I opened it with trepidation. It said, “You have been chosen to enter our school for this school year.” Chosen. Have you ever thought about that in reference to God choosing you? He chose you and me to be His children, His friends, His servants. He chose us because He loves us. Only love could choose people like us, don’t you think? And that love is greater than any in this world.
God’s love reached out to us and chose us even before we ever thought of Him. — Lloyd O’Donnell —