God chose to make a people his own as a part of his plan to save humanity. The people he chose were those of the children of Abraham. Paul has been sharing his frustration over the past few days in our readings about how many of his fellow Jews were not believing in the fulfillment of God’s plan in the coming of Jesus.

Paul confirms in today’s reading, that even those of his children who reject his covenant, turn their back on his invitation of relationship, that he will remain faithful: “For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29).

God will not turn his back on us either. When we go against the will of our loving God and Father, which goes against our own best interests, he will guide us against it. Yet he also allows us to freely choose. God sees beyond our limited point of view. What may seem good in the moment, may not be in the long-term. God sees the full spectrum, and we do better when we slow down and follow his lead instead of impulsively reacting or choosing apart from his guidance.

God seeks our best interest, encourages us, invites us to walk with him, has sent his Son to lead us back to him, and he will not abandon us. It is important to remember he loves us more than we can ever mess up or can imagine. When we realize that we have walked away, it is as simple as turning back to him, and every time, we will find him right there waiting with open arms and ready to show us how to begin again.

Photo: Sunset Thursday after evening prayer, St. Vincent De Paul Regional Seminary

Link to the Mass readings for Friday, November 4, 2023