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When I graduated from high school, my pastor wrote in his graduation card to me, “Consider taking religion classes in college, I think you have the gifts to become a pastor.”
I laughed at the idea because I had other plans. While my eyes were set on becoming a doctor, my faith continued to be important to me. For two summers, I worked as a camp counselor at the Lutheran Camp I attended throughout childhood. There I learned how to lead Bible studies, speak about how I sensed God working in the world, and wrestled with deeper questions of faith and daily life.
Being a pastor is my call. It is not something I chose. God chose me and continues to call me to this life of service. It is not easy. Like Moses, I have tried to get out of the job, at different times over the years. But God won’t let me. God always has an answer for my excuses and provides for what I need along the way.
This message is excerpted from “Your plans are not always God’s plans” by Lori Morton from the July 22, 2019, blog of the Women of the ELCA.