A dear friend of mine came to visit and while chatting, I shared stories of our recent move, new friends I had made, activities I had become involved in and also, an acquaintance I found difficult to be around.  Her reply was,

“With 11,000 residents in your community, do you think you will be best friends with each of them? Seriously, mingle, be involved and be honest enough if the relationship isn’t a good ‘fit’ to just say MEET, GREET, DELETE!” I loved the catchy phrase and the reminder that some folks can be loved because they are God’s children, but not necessarily part of my inner circle.

Jesus carefully selected His inner circle. The group of disciples were common folk, not the elite of their times.  They were fishermen, farmers and even Matthew, who was a tax collector (persons in that position were sometimes reviled, as many tax collectors padded their own pockets while collecting taxes for Rome.) Not one of the apostles was a scholar or a rabbi or what could be called the upper echelon.  Jesus’ goal in selecting them was for them to learn from Him and be able to spread the gospel and lead others on the same path of belief.

As we read the New Testament, we are aware that there were Pharisees, as well as others, who chose the Meet, Greet, Delete approach with the Messiah.  Jesus’ lessons were given in parables/stories and the fact that He didn’t come among them on a white stead in a kingly fashion, gave them the choice to “delete” Him from their pursuits.

You and I may have to “delete” others who are not a good fit for our path in life, but praise God, we are able to hold our Savior in a close relationship.  Every hair on our head is counted.  He knows us from the beginning (Psalm 139) and He chose us to be His.  He loves us unconditionally.  Praise Him.  Thank Him. Save the “deleting” for those who would keep you from Him.

Jill