There was a big trend in religious groups back in the 1990’s: FIND YOUR CALLING. Books were written. Tests were given. You were not “in” until you knew (or rather, the leadership of the church knew) exactly what your “giftings” were, and where you were to “serve”. Sadly, every test I took was inconclusive. I seemed to be a peculiar specimen. A girl who always felt “out of place”, was confirmed by her church that her suspicions were spot on: you don’t fit. So one day while stuck in traffic, I cried out to the ONLY One Who knew why He put me here: “Lord, What is my calling??” His response seemed less impressive than anticipated: “Love Me, and obey Me.” “Yes, Lord, I know that! But what is my CALLING??”, I prayed with more emphasis. “Love Me and obey Me.” At the time it seemed so bland…and it didn’t answer the question the church folks needed in order to allow me to “work”. How grateful I am that my loving, heavenly Father KNEW EXACTLY how to answer me…
It has been over 20 years since I heard The Lord say those exact words–yet I heard Him again this morning. The first time I was in search of my “calling”–this time, in full awareness of how dire this call is in my life.
LOVE, loves Him MORE.
OBEY, obeys Him–no matter the cost.
This “calling” is more than finding a spot of acceptance in the church world. It is the true “calling” to all of His children. This “call” leads to the death of sin, and to living a life in His holiness. It is the FULL awareness that nothing worth having is available apart from HIS unending, completely provided Mercy, Grace and Blood! It is the “Calling of all Callings”!
Yes Lord! I accept Your CALL! 🙂
Lord Jesus, Father over ALL,
Help us to fulfill YOUR call, FULLY. For IN You, THROUGH You and TO You ALONE all honor, praise, and glory FOREVER! AMEN
