You are the No. 1 draft pick
me to know when the University of Tennessee players were drafted, and where they were going. I also was trying to pay attention to the new Atlanta Falcons. There’s much anticipation that comes with the draft, and much surprise. Just when you think you know who’s gonna get picked first, someone else will receive the honor. Which players will be privileged to be a part of the elite group known as First Round Draft Picks? The dream of being in the NFL that they all shared coming out of high school became a reality to some, and was shattered for others.
On December 1, 1969, the Selective Service System of the United States began to draft men born from 1944 to 1950 for military service in the Vietnam War, or in Germany. This draft was much different than the NFL draft. There was no pleasure in being the first one picked nor relief from being the last one picked. In the same way, there was no shame in not being picked, because everyone was picked (unless there was some condition or circumstance that excused you from service). My dad was a part of this draft, so were some of you reading this article. I, along with so many others, am grateful for every sacrifice you made.
As Christians, we relate more to the second draft mentioned. 2 Peter 3:9 reads, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” God has a place reserved for everyone to be on his team. Not only is the invitation extended to everyone, but you’re just as important as anyone else on God’s team.
I was a little disappointed when the first draft pick for the “Dirty Birds” dropped the f-bomb on national television. Quickly enough though, the Holy Spirit reminded me of a time that I was caught up in a moment a lot less significant than his, and I myself cursed. It was interesting the next day, when the new Falcon exclaimed that he hadn’t even signed a contract and was already facing a potential fine from the NFL. This reminded me of something. Even though these guys were drafted and offered a contract, they weren’t on the team until they accepted the contract. In the same way, we’re not a part of God’s family until we accept the opportunity He has given to us. Have you accepted your invitation to God’s family through repentance? If not, what are you waiting on? I promise, anything that’s keeping you from trusting in Jesus isn’t worth the wait. Jeremiah 29:11 reads, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” There’s no greater game plan for your life, than the one the Lord has for it. Be Blessed.