January 4, 2013
                                                                           

                                                                           
  "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that
       will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. ¹⁷ This is my
                              command: Love each other."       John 15:16-17 (NIV)

Christians often tell of "having accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior" referring to a time when they made the decision to become a Christian.  Although God does give us the freedom to choose, it is just as true that followers of Jesus were chosen by Him.  "I chose you", said Jesus.

This fact does something to me.  I feel both humbled and empowered at the same time.  It means that God, who I assume knows what he's doing, has not just adopted me into his family, but he's chosen me to partner with him in some way that will further his kingdom on earth.  I am chosen to be a fruit bearer!  What a thought.

Give this a great deal of thought today:  You have been chosen by God to partner with Jesus in bearing fruit that will last.

"Lord, as I contemplate this, help me to see how you want me to bear fruit in each of the roles I play in my life, with Your help.    Amen."

            Additional Covenant Partner Opportunities

            *Learn what the "Good News" is and how to explain it clearly and succinctly
                                              Life Cafe Wednesdays 7:00-8:30.  January 9, 16, 23, 30

            *A Beautiful Mess        A musical evening of fellowship following the journey of a
                        lost child back home.  January 12, 7:00pm