Calling
Psalm 66, 67 • Psalm 116, 117
1 Samuel 2:1b-10 • Titus 2:1-10 • Luke 1:26-38
As a kid, I always thought how incredible it would be to receive the news that Mary did. As an adult, I realize how terrible that must have been for Mary in many ways. The amount of pressure she was under was incredible. I’m sure she felt scared, anxious, and terribly lonely. We don’t get much insight into what Mary was feeling, just that she accepted God’s calling. Acceptance was the easy part. After the angel departed, Mary was faced with people who did not believe her and judgement for being pregnant out of wedlock.
In our own lives, God asks us often to do the unimaginable or works through us in unthinkable ways. Serving God requires all of us to make sacrifices, do work that is criticized by many in our lives, and use our faith to overcome fear. We all feel called to do something. This is different from wanting wealth or status, it is the feeling of fulfillment that only comes when the purpose of what you are doing goes beyond yourself. This could be something small like baking cookies for your neighbors, a career change, or changing your friend group. It’s that nagging feeling that won’t go away even though you may be terrified. Many people support you after you succeed, but are your harshest critics during your season of calling. For me, it is easy to feel isolated when doing something that no one else understands. It is important to remember that we are not alone in this. God was with Mary, just as he is with you and me. We must give ourselves the grace and the freedom to live for something bigger than ourselves and the people around us. Christmas is a season of celebration, but I also urge you to use it as a time of self reflection. What are you being called to do? Who or what are you serving in your pursuits? Know that God is with you and that if you seek your calling, the result will be far greater than you imagined.
Written by Hadley Thomas
Hadley is currently a biochemistry student at Colorado School of Mines and hopes to attend medical school to become a Navy physician. She is passionate about her faith and is excited to share her perspective and interpretations with the amazing congregation of Saint Paul’s.