Last weekend was the NFL Draft where teams select rookie players to join their organization. The selection process is determined by the previous years record of each team with the worst selecting first. As a fan of the NFL and the six time Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers; I enjoy watching the draft. For me, the NFL Draft signifies the beginning of a new season, with hopes and dreams that if the team adds just the right players that… perhaps… that number seven Lombardi Trophy will adorn the team’s halls at the end of the year.
Of course, for the players selected in the draft it is a huge day for them because not only is their dream to play in the NFL realized, but a draft selection almost assures them of becoming a millionaire. According to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL and the Players Association, the last player selected in the 7th round of the draft will make just over $4 million dollars with their 3 year contract. Not too shabby for playing a game… even one as demanding as football.
While the money is not insignificant, I’m sure the reality of being selected by an NFL team and the dream realized of playing professionally is the most rewarding aspect to being drafted. Pittsburgh’s first and sixth round picks shed tears of joy over being chosen to be the newest Steelers. I love watching those type of reactions, regardless of whichever team is on the receiving end. It’s fun for me to watch players exuberant over being chosen.
Yet as exciting as it might be to be chosen to play a sport professionally, that
reality doesn’t come close to be a Chosen Child of God. Peter tells us: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priest
hood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 NIV
Paul wrote: “For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you…” 1 Thessalonians 1:4 NIV and “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved…” Colossians 3:12 NIV And let’s not forget the words of Jesus: “As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. John 15:19 NIV
Yep, chosen by an NFL team is kind of cool… but it is NOTHING compared to being chosen by The High King Of Heaven! If your faith is in Jesus Christ, you are a first round draft pick of The Creator God with all of the privileges and blessings that come with being a son or daughter of The King Of Kings! Chosen, before the foundation of the world, to be joint heirs with Christ. And while winning a Lombardi Trophy would be fun, it doesn’t come close to receiving a crown of glory in Heaven.
A week ago Saturday former Ohio State quarterback, Will Howard, heard these words from Coach Mike Tomlin: “We are going to make you a Pittsburgh Steeler with our next selection.” And Howard shed tears of joy… hugged his mom… and then, they all jumped in their swimming pool. One day, every Christian will enter Heaven and we will hear these words from the High King: “Well done my good and faithful servant!” And we will shed tears of joy… and then cast our crowns at his feet. Forever, a Child of the King!
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