March 23: Obedience to the call
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Today’s verse describes how Jesus accepted God’s calling and was transformed by the decision. While God designated Jesus for the role he played in Christian history, the plan would not have been fulfilled without Jesus’ obedience and willingness to suffer. It has been difficult for me to be obedient in the same way since the calling from God has never been very clear, but I continue to strive to be such a disciple.
One day last year, I saw a flyer for the Service Inquiry Program offered by the college’s campus ministries. I hadn’t considered the program until that moment, which happened to be the deadline for applications. I quickly pulled together my information, thinking, who knows, maybe something good will happen. Soon after that, I began feeling a calling to live in an intentional Christian community. I wanted to try living more in a way that made faith a concrete part of everything I did and in a community dependent upon each other. Upon being selected for the program, I realized that I could make this calling come alive through this opportunity that, I’m convinced, God opened up for me. So, I found a Catholic Worker house in Mexico (Casa Colibri), and made plans to spend the summer there.
But upon making the decision, I struggled with anxiety from the reports of drug violence in the region of Mexico I was headed, as well as thoughts of kidnappings and extortion. However, I felt this experience was a calling and remained committed to going.
To make a long story short, I spent the summer without any signs of danger, and my experience at Casa Colibri showed me a radical way to live according to Jesus’ message. And I found that being obedient to God’s calling allowed me to see Jesus anew.
What a great example of being obedient and how God gave you a new appreciation for serving and experiencing more of Christ.
Reverent submission. Being obedient to God’s calling. I trust this is the beginning of a wonderful journey following that calling in your life.
Thank you, this being obedient to God’s calling is something I need to do when faced with uncertain circumstances.
Thank You! How great it is for old people like me to receive inspiration from the example of young people like you.
Thank you, Josh. Your story helps me remember that I too must continue discovering the Jesus whom I came to know in my childhood; and I keep begging him to reveal himself more and more that I may love him more and more and give him to others. Thank you, Josh, once again.
Mervyn Carapiet, aged 79 years.
Thank you Josh. Obedience is the ‘cutting edge’ for many a Christian when it comes to growth: we SO let our feelings get in the way. Your contribution was a real validation to me.
Josh, Just a quick note to say thanks for your courage and realism in sharing the fulfillments and the doubts and fears too, experienced in that piece of your journey. It all felt very real and hence an encouragement to go forward despite unclarity or challenge. Really very much appreciated.
Give yourself time to take some encouragement.
Tony