God Is Calling You By Name

Ephesians 1:7-8

"⁷In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace ⁸that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding." 

Ephesians 2:4-5

^"4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, ⁵ made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."

Jesus chose His first twelve disciples to reveal God's grace to the world.  He did not choose the great religious leaders of His day.  He chose ordinary men (women were also included in His ministry) like all of us to teach, impart, and entrust the truth of His kingdom to.  Ever think about who these guys were?

Andrew & Peter - two hard working fishermen who were brothers.  One discerning of truth and willingness to tell others of his discoveries, the other, one who often spoke before thinking and ended up with his foot in his mouth.  James & John -  two assertive, possibly contentious brothers.  Philip - a mission minded man, introduced the Greek speaking Jewish community to Jesus.  Nathaniel - Jesus said he was a man "in whom there is no deception."  Simon - a "zealot" who was fanatical and uncompromising in his religious and political ideals.   Matthew - a tax collector who was hated among the Jews for his association with the occupying Romans.  Thomas - a doubter.  Bartholomew - his name possibly implying he was a "plowman," a farmer.  James - living in the shadow of his older brother, Jesus.  History tells us that he was a righteous and pious man.   Judas Iscariot - a money hungry thief and betrayer of the Messiah!   

When Jesus called the first twelve disciples he was thinking about you!  Do you see yourself in any of the twelve disciples?  John 15:16 says, "¹⁶ You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.  Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name."  

No matter who you are or what condition your life is in, God is calling you by name.  Go and bear fruit that will last!

Have a great day!  God bless you.

Louis & Elisa Quintana