Are we qualified to serve God? Do we measure ourselves against the standards of the world or God's criteria? As we learn from the story of Samuel and David, God's standards are not based on outward appearances and human considerations. Rather, God looks at the heart. Samuel learned this as God led him through the process of choosing one of the sons of Jesse, and finally having to send for the youngest son, David, who turned out to be God’s choice! God chose David, a humble shepherd boy with a heart that trusted in Him. David would know that his being sent for, his anointing and his empowering for service was solely by God’s grace, and nothing else.

Ultimately, God sent for Jesus, a descendant of David, who truly possessed a pure and perfectly trusting heart. However, despite His divine nature, the world only saw a carpenter's son who was sentenced to death on a cross. Yet, in Jesus, the wisdom of the world is confounded. In Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection God forgives our sin-laden hearts and qualifies us to serve Him. Through Him, we are given new hearts and the power of the Holy Spirit to serve God with the best of our God-given qualities.

During today's Divine Service, Pastor Soh encouraged the congregation not to disqualify themselves based on external factors such as age, education, or physical appearance. David did not let his youth or occupation prevent him from submitting himself for God's service. Similarly, all believers are called to serve God, who has qualified us by grace alone in Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Let us trust in God's mercy and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us to fulfill His purposes.

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