An Unlikely Choice

Luke 2:21-40 tells the story of the dedication of the infant Jesus at the temple. As Mary and Joseph are presenting him before the Lord they encounter two obscure elderly individuals who are led by the Holy Spirit to speak words of encouragement and prophesy regarding the baby Jesus. They didn’t have titles. They didn’t have “official positions”, degrees, or social power. I would have thought it would have been a priest, or a religious figure, or a political leader who would have spoken words about the baby Jesus. But this is God’s way – He often chooses the “least likely”, or people who lack the credentials that we typically value. Simeon’s education and charisma are not mentioned. He is only described as being “righteous and devout” and we are told that “the Holy Spirit was upon him.” Anna, we are told, was “very old” and was a widow. Her credentials were that she “worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” These were the ones who had the insight to see what God was doing.

Some things never change. God still is calling “nobodies”. He sees beyond outward qualifications and credentials. He sees deeper issues of the heart. “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish thins of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things – and the things that are not – to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God – that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31) When self-doubt and insecurity creep in (as they often do), remember these principles. Focus on what God is saying to you. How is your relationship with Him? Are you relying on His strength or your own abilities? Let Him choose you this Christmas, even if you feel insignificant or as an unlikely choice.