A key teaching of our faith tradition is that Jesus became human (and took on flesh) to show us what God is like. This past week, millions of Christians around the word observed Epiphany (January 6), which is also the 12th day of Christmas. The word “epiphany” comes from the Greek meaning “appearance” or “manifestation.” Jesus came to reveal to the whole world and to all people, what God is like.
As I mentioned last Sunday in worship, this year I am seeking to ENCOUNTER Christ. Of course, it makes it easy to encounter someone when they go out of their way to reveal to us who they are. In this season of the Sundays after Epiphany, culminating with Transfiguration Sunday (February 11), we will examine together WHO Jesus is. This coming Sunday, January 14, we will listen to the words of scripture from John 1, regarding the calling of the disciple, Philip.
Has God ever CALLED you to do something? Perhaps because of our modesty, as Presbyterians, we tend to stray away from this overly religious language. We acknowledge that God CALLS certain people to be pastors and God CALLS certain people to be missionaries; but does God CALL people to be nurses, doctors, plumbers, bankers, teachers, electricians, farmers, or parents? Has God ever CALLED you to take a new job? Move to a new place? Send a note to a friend you hadn’t seen in a long time? The call of God is not always too large, impressive, or notable endeavors. Sometimes, God calls us to do small things, in overlooked places, with marginalized people, with minimal obvious benefit to ourselves.
How do you recognize the call of God? How do you know for sure when you hear it? I invite you to tell me about it. Share a comment on this blog, send me an email or a note, or tell me personally. Better yet, tell a lot of people! May we listen intently for the voice of God, and may we respond faithfully like the prophet Samuel, saying “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
Very truly,
Pastor Adam