“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:10-11

“Come On DOWWWWWWNNNNN,” was the mantra of the night! Repeated verbally and written all over T-shirts, hats and bags, it was the universal cry of every person at the venue. A longing that those words would accompany their name, giving them a shot at the Grand Prize! We were having fun. We were contestants. We were manipulated gamblers!

A wonderful Christian couple had gotten tickets for a LIVE showing of The TV game show, “The Price is Right!” A group of us had already WON, simply by being asked to join them for the fun and revelry. Expectation was contagious as EVERYONE put on the smiles and attitudes of WINNERS since everyone believed only the most excited and outgoing would be chosen!

Oh the fun we had, as everyone took sides with the chosen contestants. EVERYONE wanted EVERYONE to WIN!!!! And win BIG! It was us against the presenters, with the selfish hope of “please pick me!” running through every vein. If there WAS any skill involved, it was guessing the price of random products! If one didn’t know, the crowd would advise!

We ALL had a BLAST, even though NONE of our group was chosen! Being there as a team made for closer relationships and better friends. But the whole ordeal was actually nothing more than gambling, hoping to win something they didn’t have, or really even NEED!

Reflecting on the experience made me smile, because I have ALREADY WON! I was at the Game Show with fellow folks who love Jesus and are already a part of HIS Heavenly Kingdom. Jesus called each of us to Himself and offered ETERNAL and ABUNDANT LIFE! We all INDIVIDUALLY came to HIM and said “YES!” We are called the CHURCH! And we don’t gamble!

Being called requires confirmation and action. When I cooperate with His call, joining Him on the world stage, my position and work is unique and special. Walking with Him here solidifies my position THERE! And I have already WON the Trip! Now I just have to get down to His business it pleases me that there is no gambling or guessing involved! And I look forward to the time when He will say, “COME ON UP!”

Which direction are YOU headed? Down or Up?