Summoned by God

Yesterday, we reflected on the biblical theme of calling. Today, I continue that reflection.

Years ago, in a church I previously served, I gave a message one Sunday about volunteering at a local homeless and counseling center. After worship, one of our retired members came up to me and said, “Oh, I could never do that. It just sounds scary. Aren’t all those guys on drugs?” I said, “Why don’t you come with me one day?”

Years later, not only was she serving regularly—she had joined their board of directors and become one of the most faithful volunteers. She said, “God called me to this—through that simple invitation: Why don’t you come with me?”

I think of her—this gentle but strong woman in her retirement years—sitting face to face with men and women who had experienced the hardest parts of life. Listening to their stories. Offering compassion. Helping them find resources. Washing their clothes. And in the process, realizing that she was needed—that her life mattered—that God was using her.

Has there ever been a time in your life when you’ve felt called or summoned by God to step out of your comfort zone? To stretch your faith?

Is it possible that God is calling you now?

Let us pray: Holy God, we thank you for your calling on our lives. And we thank you that your calling can shift and change over time. Give us ears to hear you nudging, and open hearts to respond. In Jesus’ name. Amen.