A Special Word

11Jesus replied, “Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given.  (Matthew 19:11)

Thoughts: This is a very interesting and overlooked verse.  Not everyone can accept this word.  He was saying not too many people will remain single (as Jesus did).  But only those to whom it has been given- there are people called by God to be single.  It is a rare calling.  Jesus did not have in mind the monk or nun structure of the latter church.  Jesus was saying that some are not called to be married and that is okay.  But there is a broader principle found in this verse.
     Some are called to a different calling, and they do not need to think that everyone is to be called like they are.  Not all soldiers are called to be paratroopers.  But the paratroopers do not need to look down on the other soldiers.  Everyone has a role to play.  Not all Christians are called into full time Christian work.  But those who are do not need to think that they are better than others, or that everyone should feel this call.  God calls different people with different gifts in different ways.  If the word is given to us by God- we should answer it- but not expect everyone to answer in the same way.

Prayer: Lord, when I hear your call, give me grace to follow you in that way.  Give me grace too, to be gracious to those who are different than I.