For centuries–and for many Christians even now–vocation has been erroneously seen as something strictly reserved for priests, religious sisters or pastors. To many people, the word vocation means something far removed from ordinary, everyday life, as if God’s calling–God’s vocare–is reserved for someone else. For that person you knew in high school who gave up their career to go to seminary. For your missionary friend. For your youth pastor. Anyone but you.
God’s call has never been reserved only for those who serve the church in ordained or vowed ministry. In his critique of the corruption in the church of his day, Martin Luther repeatedly cited 1 Peter 2:9: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people.”
Just as God created you as God’s precious, beloved creation – God has a desire for you to live out your life as a disciple of Jesus, seeking to follow Jesus in your everyday life, whatever that looks like for you.
This message is an excerpt from “Vocation and timing” by Angela Denker in the April 2018 issue of Café.
Do you enjoy these free Daily Grace messages? If so, donate now to further the ministry.