In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:12).

So which “we” is this “we”?

Who were “the first to hope in Christ”?

Well, that would be the Jews–or at least, some of them.

Jesus dealt mostly with the Jews. He spoke to Gentiles occasionally, but it was the exception. The People of the Law got the first opportunity to embrace the One who fulfilled the Law.

And some believed, to the praise of His glory.

Don’t worry, Beloved. Those of us who are not Israel by birth are Israel by rebirth. As Paul has and will explain, this was always the plan. The Gospel came first to the Jews, in fulfillment of his promise. But God’s love cannot be confined by genetics.  He will have mercy upon whom he chooses to have mercy.

And he chooses to have mercy on you.

Happy Friday, Beloved.