February 9, 2026
Good Evening Allen Temple Family,
Hoping this note finds you well this day.
Well, here we are at the beginning of a new week. This week we continue unpacking our February focus on Identity. Last week, we were reminded that our lives belong to God. This means we can rest in God's presence and providential care for us.
Not only do we belong to God but scripture teaches we were CHOSEN by God. 1 Peter 2:9 states: "You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own possession - so that you may declare the goodness of God who has called you out of darkness into the marvelous light." Believe it or not, something happened yesterday that echoes this truth.
During the Super Bowl Halftime show, artist Bad Bunny performed entirely in Spanish and placed Puerto Rican and broader Latin identity and culture on display for millions. In doing so, he challenged traditional definitions of what it means to be American. His performance garnered strong reactions — joy for some, confusion and even anger for others. Art and culture are often mirrors and resistance.
Regardless of whether you enjoyed it or not, it reinforced for me that there is only one choosing that never shifts with public opinion or applause: God’s choosing. In Christ, we are not chosen based on public opinion or popularity. God chooses because of love, purpose and eternal belonging.
In this climate of division and strife, I pray we find comfort this week in knowing that we have been chosen by God. Read John 15 and reflect this week. This is why we can confidently declare.....AND WE kNOW! God will cause ALL things to work together for our good!
*Did you see it? If not, take a look at the replay. It told a brilliant story...let me know what you thought!
Blessings and Triumph to You,
