As children we are asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Most times we think in terms of jobs or careers, not in terms of calls or vocations. Even as adults, we don’t always think the word vocation outside of the church and pastoral context.
When Paul calls the Corinthians to be saints he doesn’t limit to pastors (1 Corinthians 1:2). Paul is speaking to and about the entire church, but so often we relegate the term to mean only the call of clergy or ministers.
One of the best ways I’ve heard vocation defined is from the author and Presbyterian minister, Frederick Buechner. He says, “The place where God calls you to is a place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” This explanation is a comfort to those who may have multiple passions that pull in different directions.
This message is adapted from “Everyday calls” written by Heather B.P. Wallace in the January/February 2013 issue of Gather magazine. Today we remember Erik, King of Sweden, martyr, who died in 1160.