House Number 6

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House Number 6

Scripture Reading — 1 Peter 1:1-2

To God’s elect . . . who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit . . . . — 1 Peter 1:1-2

Though it’s been more than twenty years, I’m still not sure who was more scared when Ron opened the door—he or I. I was on my first night of going door-to-door, working through the neighborhood to meet people. Eventually this would take me to 950 homes, but Ron’s house was number six. First night, sixth house. I was pretty nervous.

My goal was to do a brief survey and leave. But Ron—silver-haired, five-foot-seven, overweight, professionally dressed, squinting a little and blinking a lot—well, he kept asking questions. Twenty minutes into the discussion I finally said, “Hey, this may sound a little forward, but—would you ever want to meet for coffee or something, to talk more about faith?”

Ron said, “Well, I think we have to do that, because for the past year I’ve been praying for God to send someone to me to lead me out of this dark time in my life.” It’s a little overwhelming to be called the answer to someone’s prayer.

The apostle Peter tells us that sanctification is not something we make happen; it is something we are chosen for, by God. God sees us, targets us, and takes action within us. It is his eternal work.

God was calling Ron. God is calling you too. Are you going to open the door?

Prayer: Lord, this gives me hope that my life is in your hands. Please do your gra*cious work in me, and lead me out from darkness *today. Amen.

Keith Mannes