Just last week I gathered with several other young families and singles to further explore the potential of moving across the country to help start a new church in the Phoenix Valley. As a Pastor, I felt compelled to share with them what my mission Professor once shared with me when I was at a crossroads, of decision trying to determine my calling. He said, “Calling is more about a process then it is an event.”
So often we look for the magical and mystical experiential event to confirm our calling! Most are shocked to learn that the Bible doesn't emphasize this special, mystical calling to "The Ministry" or particular job or person.
Scripture References: Called to a Service:
•The word “Call” appears 296 times in scripture, twice it refers to missions/ministry
•Paul & Barnabas are set apart for ministry, made known by the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:2).
•Paul, Timothy and Luke receive a call to go to Macedonia (Acts 16:10).
The kind of "call"that is more often found in the Bible is more so an opportunity. In my study through scripture, I see people taking opportunities given to them, or responding to an invitation to help, or advance the Kingdom of God. Take for example, Jesus’ disciples. They were invited into something, by someone to serve. Or consider Nehemiah who received word about Jerusalem’s walls being broken down. He saw opportunity to serve and he took it! Or David who stepped up to slay a giant, when no one else would! Or what about Esther found her calling by seeing a need and decided to be brave and use her influence to save her people.
God’s call should often includes 5 things:
1.Community- a community can confirm ones gifts & new potential for a new ministry
2.Commission- Awareness- an understanding of the Great Commission Mt 28:19, Acts 1:8
3.Concern- concern for a city, people, or service should be in place
4.Conviction- in time ones concern should grow into a deeper conviction.
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