Divinely Directed Decision Day
14 years ago, on this day, I had a different kind of D-day – I was called to preach! It was the first time that I heard the Spirit of God speak… so distinctively and clearly… and yet, so simply:
“I want you to preach.”
The overwhelming joy of this call has been fulfilled by God’s grace and strength and provision through many blessings and trials since then.
Over the past couple years, as God has been teaching and leading me — yes 😊 through the ways of AARTful Waiting — He has used me to preach on occasion and has had me teaching regularly. But part of me has also wondered about this season of life and even whether the nature of God’s call had changed in some way.
Then, a few weeks ago, as I was listening to the Lectio 365 morning devotion — reflecting on the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24 and the significance of His use of questions throughout His ministry — Pete Greig proposed:
“What might Jesus be asking me today?”
As I waited in a few moments of silence, the Spirit of Jesus asked:
“Do you love Me?”
And I knew immediately…
How many times had I read Jesus’ threefold call to restore Peter from his threefold denial? (John 21:15-17)
How many times had I been encouraged to understand that there is no calling, for any of us, that is not rooted and founded in loving Jesus?
Somehow, beyond and in spite of all my frustrations and stumblings – even my sins, debts, and offenses – Jesus was reminding me of the ONE thing.
Yes, my Jesus, I love You. I will tend and feed whomever of Your sheep You may bring my way.