Why were the Jews God’s chosen people?

Many people across the world wonder why Israel is the nation that God chose to work through in history.  They have been rebellious numerous times, even today, and have rejected God’s Messiah when He came.  However, the choosing of Israel had nothing to do with their ability to continually follow God and always do what He asks.  If that were the case, we all would be in trouble.  God chose Israel because of their faults so that He would be glorified through them (Psalm 68:26).  Even in choosing Jacob over Esau God knew what He was doing and made the choice through mercy (Romans 9:10-16).  God has been merciful and patient with Israel and it will be at the second coming of Jesus when they will finally accept the Messiah and live in peace with God (Jeremiah 24:7).