Chosen

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world

to be holy and blameless in his sight.

Ephesians 1:4

I love dogs! Every dog we have owned has been my close companion. Therefore, when our 7-year-old Chocolate Lab died suddenly of a stroke, I was heartbroken. Two days later, Don noticed an advertisement in the newspaper for a litter of chocolate labs. Though I was still grieving, I decided to begin looking for a puppy.

I prayed specifically. Lord, if you want me to have a puppy, bring my puppy to me.

After researching litters online and making a few phone calls, I traveled to see the litter advertised in the paper. I needed a second opinion, so my brother went with me.

One by one I examined each of the puppies. While inspecting them, I noticed one looked very familiar. I asked my brother, “Haven’t I looked at this puppy several times?” He replied, “Yes. He keeps coming back to you and sitting at your feet.”

That was Duke. He was God’s answer to my prayer! God brought my puppy to me. As I paid for Duke, the dog breeder said, “You didn’t choose him. He chose you.”

Those of us who follow the Lord Jesus Christ are chosen by Him. Jesus said to his disciples, You did not choose me, but I chose you... (John 15:16). Think about that, believer. Before the creation of the world, He chose you. He purchased you with His blood on the cross. You are His special treasure. He brought you to Himself, and He will never let you go.

Father, knowing that I am your chosen treasure brings me to my knees in gratitude. I understand, Father, that nothing in me made me worthy of being chosen. I am yours only because of your love and grace. Thank you for choosing me and making me your own.

Jan Burkhart