You are chosen

12-2-22

Today's devotion is based on Isaiah 43:1, "But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine."

The Old Testament is as much about us as it is about Christ. When the promises were fulfilled, and the purpose God had for Israel was fulfilled, Israel's long history was completed. Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly, something the people of Israel could not do. 

We can know this when Saint Paul writes that it was written regarding the people of Israel, especially their time in the desert; he could say with certainty that it was written for our sake. Today's verse shows this: God has called you by name. You are his, just as the people of Israel in their history were his. They were made his by the act of circumcision. We are made his by the act of Baptism. Both circumcision and Baptism sets believers apart from those of the world.

In your Baptism, God's purpose was started. Just as earthly parents desire to care and provide for their children, God desires to care and provide for those who are his through Baptism. That is why every Christian should believe in the verse from Isaiah today, especially when they are besieged by doubt or trouble. God created you. God formed you. God has named you. Thus, you are his. 

Please pray with me: Lord, help me to remember that I did not choose you. You chose me; thus, I know without a doubt that I am yours. In Jesus' blessed name, I pray. Amen.