Calling

Calling

Today’s Scripture Selection: Ephesians 4:1-5

“As a prisoner of the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.  There is one body and one Spirit – just as you were called to one hope when you were called – one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

Ministers, at least the good ones, spend a fair amount of time thinking about their calling.  They regularly examine whether they are fulfilling their vocational calling; and whether they are still fulfilled doing it.  They look at how close they feel to the original sense of purpose they once had; and how it has changed as their lives have changed.  They prayerfully ask themselves – as honestly as they can – if they are in line with God’s will for their lives.

But what about those who have not been officially ordained and “called” to be in ministry?

Well, I think it is just as important for these individuals to think about their calling.

We all have gifts; we all have unique personalities; we all have strengths; and we all have weaknesses.  God knows all about that.

And God calls each of us to take what we have been given and who we are – and put it into service in His name.  The old term for this is “vocation”.

So – what’s your vocation?  What is God calling you to do – at this point in your life’s journey?  Are you satisfied or frustrated; clear or confused about it?  Are you just finishing one part of it – ready for a little R&R – or are you just beginning a fresh, new, exciting part of the journey?

Prayerfully ask God to show you where you are – and where God wants you to go next.

And your “calling” as a servant of God will grow and grow in grace and meaning – every single day.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for calling me into service in your name.  Lead me and guide me.  And may the glory and honor be yours.  AMEN.