Our Vocation and God’s Mission
I have a friend who owns his own business. A few years ago, he was wondering out loud, “What could God do through my simple business? What does this have to do with sharing the gospel with my neighbors?” As we talked, we realized how many young men have worked for him over the years. We remembered each of their stories and how he was able to mentor them through times of immaturity, life consequences, or feeling lost about what’s next. He often wished he didn’t have so much turnover, but now realizes that many of them needed someone to care for them during those pivotal moments in their lives. Several have gone on to seminary or to serve in a parachurch ministry. Some decided to go back to school. Others had the time and space while working for him to recognize their talents and moved on to other jobs. His business was so much more than the products it produced, it had become a space for discipleship and growth!
When we take a step back and give all areas of our lives to God, he can use us in ways we never realized. God calls us each into his mission, no matter our personality, our abilities, or our vocation. Whether working as a teacher, a car salesman, a nurse, a business owner, or a youth leader, God is working in and through you. Or, God could be working through the new relationship you’re building with a neighbor. Or, through coaching your nephew’s baseball team. God is ready to use our gifts to be a light in the darkness wherever we work, live, and play.
Sometimes we limit our vocation and our calling to our involvement in our local church or our jobs, but that’s only part of it. Serving on the worship team, as a Sunday School teacher, or even volunteering at the homeless shelter are good and wonderful things, but there’s so much more to joining Jesus on his mission.
As Professor Knutson writes in his article in this issue, “The biblical understanding of vocation expands beyond both the religious and occupational usage, into the entirety of the Christian life.” God wants our whole life.
As the Apostle Paul wrote,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith―and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God―not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. ―Eph 2:8-10
We were saved by grace! Modeling the grace we’ve received, as we share the gospel, reflects the life of Jesus. Every area of our lives is rich with potential for service in God’s mission. It’s the bedtime stories with your son, taking the time to attend the basketball game of your neighbor’s daughter, how you treat your spouse in public, noticing the person struggling with a flat tire down the street, or even giving your child’s teacher the benefit of the doubt before getting angry. Acts of grace and love can create opportunities for conversation.
When you open your eyes, pay attention, and join Jesus on his mission, you’ll most likely be amazed by what God’s been doing all along. As with my friend’s business, God is already at work!
Jesus found surprising opportunities to share his good news with those around him. From Zacchaeus to the woman at the well, Jesus noticed those who usually would have been overlooked. How often have we overlooked people or opportunities where God has been working? As we open all areas of our lives to God, imagine what opportunities we’ll find!
So, as you consider your vocation, your calling, remember that God doesn’t compartmentalize your life. He can use you in the most unexpected ways. Prepare to be surprised!
Tim Mathiesen is the Director of Communications & Prayer for the Church of the Lutheran Brethren.