So, the National Football League draft is over for another year. All the expert analysis that was heard for the past 6 months is done. Well, actually that will continue as post-draft analysis. Some of the football hopefuls’ dreams were realized, some ended up crashing to the ground. Next comes the big money negotiations, followed by training camp, followed by roster cuts and then finally everyone will see if being a first round draft choice means anything.

As I followed some of the draft, I realized the message of the Bible tells me that indeed THE pick is in. Of course this is not about football or baseball or any other sport that has a draft. As important as the draft is to potential professional athletes and as caught up I can get as a fan if my team makes a  “terrible” choice, the whole process is earthbound and short-lived.

To have any chance to be a first round choice in the NFL draft you must have shown an ability to play football at a high level. So high in fact, that no one else can give what you possess to a team.

When God looks at his candidates there is also a prerequisite–I admit I am sinful.  Romans 3:23 says, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Well I am definitely part of all. I sin every day and no matter how hard I try I fall short of perfection.

One thing teams look at is the ability for players to play with the team. If you have shown you treat your teammates poorly, even if you are an outstanding player, chances of being a first round choice is lessened.

The Bible tells us that I cannot stop sinning and be good enough to get into heaven. However, it also says in 1 Corinthians But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I need to have faith that Jesus paid for all my sins through his perfect life and death on the cross. I cannot get to heaven on my own.

Even once drafted, a first round choice needs to produce. If not, they are eventually off the team. (Space prevents me from sharing those names of former draft picks who have failed miserably).

Although it is my goal to live a sinless life to say thank you for what Jesus did for me, I know I daily fall far short. So God will cut me from his team? 1 John tells me  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. I cannot be perfect, but God still forgives. He shows mercy to me in not counting those sins against me. Jesus has already paid for those sins.

So the pick is in: I am a first round draft choice; not because of any talent I possess; not because I am good enough; not even because people may like me. God chose me because of what Jesus did to make me his choice. He died for my sins and through his Word gave me faith to believe that fact. And I received the most lucrative contract ever because of what Jesus did for me: eternal life in heaven. I love to be a member of his team.

Hope you come back. I will wait you.