Calling

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38) 

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God is calling you today. God may be calling you to a role that is exciting or to a place that the world may deem as “ordinary”. That is not what is important. What is important is that God is calling you to be exactly who he created you to be when he knit you together in your mother’s womb. When God created you, he knew that the world needed you today with your unique gifts and skills. He knew that there were things that needed to be done in this world that only you can do. God is calling you today to be a living witness to the life of faith. God is calling you today to a life of quiet obedience and faithful trust in every situation, in every conversation, in the good times and the bad times. God is calling you today to use the skills and talents he has blessed you with, right where you are. God’s call on your life is tremendously freeing, for his call on your life is for you to be you. 

You don’t have to be afraid! The one who calls you today, sees exactly what is happening in this world. God is grieved by the sinfulness he sees, and his heart longs for redemption and reconciliation, but God is not surprised or panicking. What a privilege you have to constantly enjoy the presence of the one who called you, the one who is in control of this universe wherever you go, as you take the next step in obedience. No matter how many scary, dark, wonderful or joyous situations you experience, God has promised to be with you and never to leave you alone or forsake you. When you are tempted to say “what if this happens” or “what if that happens” what are you saying about God? 

You know what you need to do next! The one who calls you, has given you sufficient guidance for the next step. His word is a lamp unto your feet. God has blessed you with everything you need to faithfully move forward (people, gifts, resources, skills). The one who calls you, is the one who created you. He is aware of your weaknesses and limitations be they physical, emotional, financial or whatever they may be. Yes, God has called you, because he knows that your unique combination of strengths and weakness are exactly what is required to do what you are called to do. When you doubt your ability to follow his call, what are you saying about God, and who he created you to be? 

It is never too late … today you can start being the person God created you to be. Be obedient today and faithfully follow what you know about God. There is nothing stopping you from starting now to trust God. God is with you. God will deliver you. God is faithful, God will keep his promises toward you. Even though nobody around you may be trusting God – you can! Today you can model Christ’s love! Today you can model grace! 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Heb 12:1-3)

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Heb 13:15-16)