CHOSEN FROM THE PEOPLE

Rev. Fr. David Okolie

Dearest friends, God has never thrown down from heaven those he specifically chooses to accomplish certain works on earth. He chooses such persons from the people. Thus the Scripture affirms: “It was he who gave gifts to people, he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers” (cf. Eph 4:11). The above is not limited to priests but involves ALL CHRIST’S FAITHFUL; who have been specifically CHOSEN through their BAPTISM (cf. CCC nn. 1213, 1268, 1273).

However, there is always a problem associated with this choice of God. It is the feeling of UNWORTHINESS both on the part of the chosen and on the part of those from whom the person is chosen. Very often, because they know his/her background, it is, sometimes, very difficult for them to recognize that such a person is a chosen instrument of God.

For God to fully manifest his powers, those who are chosen should not allow their own weaknesses to weigh them down. They should humbly cling to the grace of God. However, they should not NEGATIVELY and SCANDALOUSLY celebrate their weaknesses.

To draw enormous benefits, those from whom God has made his choice should look beyond the weaknesses of those chosen. Instead, they should see the power of God, which is capable of using whomsoever to accomplish his plans. Hence, the Catechism affirms: “Nothing is more apt to confirm our faith and hope than holding it fixed in our minds that nothing is IMPOSSIBLE with God” (cf. CCC, 274). Remember that God even spoke to Balaam, the prophet through a DONKEY (cf. Num 22:28). Thus, God still SPEAKS to us on daily basis through persons and events we least expect.

Finally, those chosen by God to spread his message should not be discouraged by the lukewarmness of the people or even their outright rejection of the message of God. Let them persevere in the proclamation of the MESSAGE; *in season and out of season* (cf. 2 Tim 4:2, Ezk 2:5).

We pray the Blessed Virgin Mary to always support us with her powerful intercession. Amen🙏🏼

Remain blessed🙏🏼