An Unworthy Candidate for Election

1 Peter 1:2
1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

When I think of election I automatically go to the idea of choosing the best and most reputable candidate – one who will represent my thoughts and attitudes most accurately.

Father, I cannot comprehend then why I am among your elect and yet your Spirit confirms that I am. The thought that you chose me – you cast your vote for me – is gloriously unthinkable if that choice were based upon my merit or reputation. But your election of me is quite different in that it is not based upon my merit, but yours. You chose me so that you could form me into a representative – an ambassador of your Kingdom.

Because of humanity’s fallen nature, there are no good candidates for that role. There are men of higher morals, deeper devotion and greater ability. And yet, even their strengths betray them and they are marred by sin, confirming their inability to adequately represent you.

In me you found nothing but sin and weakness and yet you cast your vote on me, knowing that you could mould me into Your image through the inner working of your Spirit. That is the essence of sanctification – you have set me apart to become holy and obedient.

Like Moses ratified the Covenant with Israel through the sprinkling of blood (Exodus 24:8), you have confirmed your choice of me as representative by sprinkling the blood of Jesus on me. So here I am LORD with nothing to offer except what you work into me. Exercise in me your work of obedience and help me to be a good representative of your thoughts and feelings this day. I rejoice in your election of me!

Quote of the day: “The mass of men live lives of quiet desperation.” Henry David Thoreau
Let this not be said of me. Rather, may I be both purposeful and live loud enough to be heard.