Embracing the weak and the sinful: God’s Choice and Renewal of Sts. Peter and Paul

Throughout the Scriptures, we witness a recurring theme of God selecting individuals who are seemingly weak and lowly to fulfill significant roles as leaders and warriors among His people. The examples are numerous and inspiring:

Consider Noah, who found favor in the eyes of the Lord amidst a corrupt and wicked generation (Genesis 6:8). God chose him to build an ark, preserving both humanity and animals from the catastrophic flood. Though Noah was not esteemed in the eyes of his contemporaries, God saw his righteousness and faithfulness.

Abraham, known as the father of faith, was a simple man when God called him out of his homeland (Genesis 12:1). Despite his doubts and uncertainties, Abraham obeyed and became the recipient of God’s covenant promises. Through his descendants, the nation of Israel was born.

Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, too, were recipients of God’s sovereign choice. Isaac, the promised son of Abraham, carried the lineage of God’s covenant (Genesis 17:19). Jacob, who later became Israel, was chosen to father the twelve tribes of Israel (Genesis 32:28). Joseph, the youngest and despised by his brothers, rose from a position of slavery to become a powerful leader in Egypt, ultimately saving his family from famine (Genesis 37-50).

Gideon, an unlikely hero, was chosen by God to lead the Israelites in battle against the Midianites (Judges 6-8). Despite Gideon’s initial reluctance and self-doubt, God empowered him to achieve a great victory with a small army, demonstrating His strength through weakness.

Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet, was young and unsure of his abilities when God called him to be a prophet to the nations (Jeremiah 1:4-9). Despite facing persecution and rejection, Jeremiah faithfully proclaimed God’s message, enduring suffering for the sake of God’s people.

David, the youngest and least esteemed among his brothers, was anointed by God to be the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:1-13). Through David’s courageous triumph over Goliath and his steadfast devotion to God, he became one of the greatest kings in Israel’s history.

Samuel, as a child, was chosen by God to be a prophet and judge in Israel (1 Samuel 3:1-18). Despite his young age and lack of experience, God spoke to Samuel, and he became a significant instrument of divine revelation and guidance for the people.

Jonah, though initially disobedient, was chosen by God to bring a message of repentance to the people of Nineveh (Jonah 1-4). Through God’s mercy and Jonah’s eventual obedience, an entire city turned from their wicked ways and found redemption.

Mary, a humble and young virgin, was chosen to bear the Son of God, Jesus Christ (Luke 1:26-38). Her willingness and submission to God’s plan demonstrated her faithfulness and paved the way for the salvation of humanity.

Even the apostles, including Peter and Paul, exemplify God’s redemptive power in choosing those who falter and betray. Peter, despite denying Jesus three times, was restored by Jesus Himself and entrusted with the responsibility of shepherding His flock (John 21:15-17). Paul, formerly known as Saul, persecuted the early Christians but experienced a radical transformation on the road to Damascus. God chose him to be an apostle to the Gentiles, and Paul became instrumental in spreading the Gospel throughout the ancient world.

These examples highlight the undeniable truth that God’s choices transcend human logic and understanding. He delights in selecting the weak, the low, and the despised to accomplish His mighty works. By choosing those who are deemed insignificant by the world, God showcases His power and sovereignty. It is through these humble vessels that He reveals His strength, confounds the wisdom of the wise, and brings glory to His name.

Therefore, let us be comforted in knowing that our weaknesses and limitations do not disqualify us from being chosen by God. In fact, they can become the very avenues through which His power is displayed. As the apostle Paul wrote, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV).

When we feel inadequate or unworthy, let us remember that it is precisely in those moments that God’s grace abounds. He sees beyond our shortcomings and calls us to embrace His divine promptings with a resounding “yes.” As we surrender ourselves to His will, He will equip us with everything we need to fulfill the tasks He sets before us.

So, dear friend, know that you have been chosen by God. God’s favor rests upon you regardless of your background, flaws, or societal standing. Embrace His calling upon your life and trust that He will transform your weaknesses into strengths, using you to accomplish great things for His kingdom.

Say “yes” to divine promptings, just as the heroes of faith in the Bible did. Know that God’s choice of the weak and lowly is not a mistake but a deliberate display of His glory. It is through your willingness to be used by Him that His power will be made manifest.

You have been chosen, and “yes” is the only true answer. Step forward in faith, for the same God who worked wonders through Noah, Abraham, David, and the apostles desire to work through you. Embrace your identity as a chosen vessel of God and watch as He accomplishes extraordinary things through your surrendered life.

– Fr. James Anyaegbu