Why am I chosen for whatever it is I am chosen for?

Today is my birthday.

I am pondering some readings first thing and was struck with the question above.  Is God pulling the strings? Is free choice just an illusion in my life?

First says Henry Nouwen:

"Each of us has a mission in life.  Jesus prays to his Father for his followers, saying "As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." (John 17:18)

We seldom realize fully that we are sent to fulfill God given tasks.  We act as if we have to choose how, where, and with whom we live. We act as if we were simply dropped down in creation and have to decide how to entertain ourselves until we die.  But we were sent into the world by God, just as Jesus says.  Once we start living our lives with that conviction, we will soon know what we were sent to do."

Then from The Little White Book from Saginaw, MI:

"Nobody feels comfortable saying: "I'm a holy person."  But it's true.  Holiness is not something of my own doing.  God's gift is in me right now.  If I have God's life within me, I am holy. The eternal life Jesus gives me,  by sending his Spirit, is divine life, God's life. And it isn't just something that kicks in after I die."

Something to ponder for sure.  Recently I was "chosen" for two separate activities that were linked.  When asked would I accept, I said yes.  Was that God speaking in me?

Many years ago during my Lifespring encounter (google it), there was an exercise where the group had to choose who to put into the life boat on a sinking ship.  I was one of the few chosen.  At the time I remember feeling totally surprised (and unworthy) of this.  Was that God choosing me?

I have had a glimpse today that it was indeed God, and He is in me.  I can feel/see the edges of his presence and see the mystical works he orchestrates.  I am indeed called to Him.  Thanks be to God.