An Unlikely Choice
Scripture Reading — 1 Samuel 16:1-13
“People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7
—
The Lord willing, I will be inaugurated as the seventh president of Calvin Theological Seminary tomorrow. I’ve been told that when the presidential search committee began its search process, their opening devotions were based on the verses from today’s Scripture.
I do not mean to compare my selection to that of David, but I do know something of being an “unlikely” choice. Maybe you do as well. If so, we are in good company.
I am sure that God has a sense of humor, and I know that he sees far beyond what we see. As Samuel came looking for a king, he was initially impressed by appearance and height. Even David’s father hadn’t bothered to call David in from the fields to appear before Samuel. It was only after all the other sons had been seen and passed by that Jesse sent for David—and God directed Samuel to anoint this young shepherd as the future king of Israel.
These verses remind me that God is the great director—not me. I am also challenged to see others as God would see them. The outward appearance can get in my way of seeing as God would have me see. As I move into a new position, I pray for God’s vision, and I pray that he prompts me to recognize the “unlikely” people that he aims to work through to build his kingdom.
Dear God, please forgive us when our sight is limited and prejudicial. Be our vision, I pray today! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Jul Medenblik
Rev. Jul Medenblik is a former attorney who was called to pastoral ministry and became the church-planting pastor of a congregation in New Lenox, Illinois. Since 2011 he has served as the seventh president of Calvin Theological Seminary, which, together with Calvin University, is celebrating 150 years of God’s faithfulness in their history as the educational institutions of the Christian Reformed Church in North America (see calvinseminary.edu/150th). Jul and his wife, Jackie, have been married for over 40 years and are blessed with two adult children and a son-in-law.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!