“Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen? Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world” (D&C 121:34-35). When we consider what “things of this world” might be preventing us from being chosen in our callings for life transforming experiences, we might assume that these things would include fancy sports cars or designer handbags or expensive vacations or new gadgets. And it's not to say that such things could prevent us from being chosen, but I think there is an even simpler explanation. When we are called by the Lord to serve His children, it is always about people and never about things. If we want to be not just called but also chosen, then we can't be reducing any of God's children to mere things of this world. Although there is administrative value in keeping and making reports, the minute that we treat any facet of our calling as some sort of number or checklist, we have begun to include those parts of our calling in the category of “things of this world.” The worth of each soul is infinite in the eyes of God. No soul can be reduced to a “thing”. We need to remember that the individuals we are serving, every last one of them, are so important that God gave His Only Begotten Son to save them. Jesus Christ bled from every pore for them. If we can see them as individuals that need our help, then we will not be thinking about how tired we are, or what kinds of entertainment or hobbies we are giving up to be with them. They will not be part of the things of this world. There will be no question that they are far more important than any other concern we might have. This is the difference between being called and being chosen.
