Following God’s call on my life has meant moving a family with young children around the world. This is not an easy task. And some days, living out my “vocation” – my calling based on abilities, divine guidance, circumstances and relationships – requires doing things that look pretty different from the dreams of success I entertain, but just as important.
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Vocation is one side expertise
Gifting, accomplishment, tasks done with ease –
The stuff of introductions, applications, CV’s
Then there’s what needs to be done
Humility, service: non-marketable skills
Calling (the other side) serves those we love
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Boldness in the face of persecution
Steadfastness in the face of threats and suffering
Patience in the doctor’s waiting room
Discipline, every day, the quotidien
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Changing lives through passionate engagement –
Winning hearts with persuasive words
Shaping young hearts’ attitudes through discipline
Changing diapers (engaged, but not passionate)
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Dazzling a classroom with scholarly insights
Crafting words to express timeless truths –
Training leaders and making disciples
Potty training and making breakfast
Craft supplies from the closet for a little girl’s project
Dazzling a child with bedtime Bible stories
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Navigating conflicts between culture and Christian belief
Learning my host culture’s way of relating –
Wisely adapting my manners and approach to varying contexts
Seeking wisdom to help my family adapt to our new context
Learning (still) my wife’s way of relating –
Navigating conflicts between my family’s needs and my desires
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Mobilizing others to go across cultures in mission
Sharing what God is doing in the global church
Trying to keep the kids quiet in church
Motivating myself to go talk to my neighbors
Bearded Sage 