Chosen

I don’t know how many times I said “No” to God before I finally said “Yes,” gave up my career, said goodbye to the plans we had, stepped away from security and stability. We used retirement savings for me to upgrade my education with university credits and then to attend four years of seminary. You don’t choose me, I choose you.

I had every excuse under the sun to ignore God’s choice-and I knew that God had chosen. First it was the kids and being active and involved in their lives. Then it was caring for elderly parents. These callings are important, too! Then came my lack of self-confidence. I could never do that. I am not educated enough. I’m not sure that I have what it takes. And then I said aloud one day, “We haven’t the money.” Guess what came in the mail the next day? It was a statement of my retirement funds. It contained the exact amount that was estimated for the four years of seminary tuitions and book costs; I could no longer use the “money card” to say no.

And so, that cool rainy fall day just after Thanksgiving, I went to an open house at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, and I realized in the moments of that day how completely God had chosen me.

Loving God, help me accept what you choose. Amen. — RS