Our readings today form a theme, a theme that was developed when I found out what Adam was singing for us this morning. He already sang Amazing Grace, a hymn we all know and understand it speaks of God's grace that saves us when we are sinners who come to God in repentance. But our theme comes more from his next song, some of the verses of which I will share with you in the message.
The title of the song is “You Are Mine.” It is a claim of God on those whom Jesus has brought new life. We are chosen by the Lord for this gift of life. Our scriptures suggest this truth; in John's gospel we read, “you belong to God, my dear children.” And in his gospel he identifies Jesus as the gatekeeper and says, “He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” He calls his sheep, his disciples, those who believe in him-- us--by name.