But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 1 Peter 2:9

This week was both my eldest’s and my birthdays. And I really struggled. My mum passed away in 2023 and she was remarkably loving. She was never too busy to listen and encourage, remembered little details and used them to make those in her circle of care feel seen and valued. But since she died, I’ve found it tricky to discover that foundational love anywhere else. To be clear now, my husband is the best man I’ve ever known, and incredibly kind to me. Our children make a fuss, it’s not them. Sorry to be cliched, it’s me.

This week I have felt like I don’t measure up to my mum’s way of loving others, her patient and detailed care. And I’ve felt her loss more keenly. But wait, before you join my pity party, that’s not what this is. I had an incredible mum for 53 years of my life – and my dad was pretty fantastic too. However, they were human.

Chosen

The point of today’s scripture is to underline that we have an even greater gift, one that doesn’t ever die. Through Jesus, we are God’s special people. Chosen and loved. Paid for through death and resurrection. Jesus took our sin to the cross and in doing so, forever ended the separation between God and man. No more needing a veil to approach the throne.

But it’s important to note we are chosen for a reason. To proclaim the praises of him. Why? Because he called us out of darkness. God calls us his children. Chosen. Beloved. The list goes on and on of words of love he speaks over us.

Evident

And when you look for it, that love is evident everywhere. Despite my pity party yesterday, God showed up and reminded me I was special to him. Special enough to die for. Between a cacophony of birthday songs ,video calls from overseas and a couple of incredibly thoughtful gifts, his love, was whispered through others.

Friends – my birthday greeting to you all is to remind you that YOU ARE SPECIAL to God. Whether you’re on top of the world or dragging through the mire. You are special and loved and seen and chosen. Please always reach out if you’d like prayer.