Grafted in

Romans chapter 11 speaks how we as Gentiles have been grafted into Jesus Christ by way of rejection. The Jews were, and still are, God's chosen people. However, by choice, they rejected Jesus as Messiah opening up the way for us Gentiles to be grafted in.

"For since their rejection meant that God offered salvation to the rest of the world (v. 15)."

We are described in verse 17 as "wild olive trees...sharing in the rich nourishment from the root of God's special olive tree."

As I read through this chapter of Romans I could not help but think that we too, as wild olive trees, are by way of adoption, allowing for the "rejected" children of this world to be grafted in just as we have been. Grafted into the "riches and wisdom and knowledge of God (v. 33)!"

Just as it says, "how impossible it is for us to understand His decision and His ways (v. 33b)."

And so although we may never completely understand the overwhelming number of orphans all over the world, we as "wild olive trees" can, by the same mercy we have received, become part of God's plan to graft these "rejected" children into the family of God.

"Now God's mercy has come to you so that they, too, will share in God's mercy (v 31)."

Will you allow the Lord to use you in this way?

"For everything comes from Him and exists by His power and is intended for His glory. All glory to Him forever! Amen. (v. 36)."