What Shall I Say?

Filed Under Pastor's Blog by Pastor Meredith

There is a small little book sitting on my desk at the moment called What Shall I Say? Discerning God’s Call to Ministry. The book is quite literally falling apart at this point. Even though my call to ministry was discerned many years ago, I still find myself going back to refer to it. There is something about re-reading it that reminds me of what God is calling me to do and be.

Recently, I had the privilege of having dinner with 12 young adults who are discerning their own calls to ministry. Amidst much food and laughter, there was conversation about what it means to be called by God and the church to public ministry. Listening to these young adults, I was inspired by the many ways that God is working in their lives and calling to them.

Discernment is not just something for pastors or future pastors. Discernment is the work of all of the people of God. God calls each one of us to do the work of God in the world.

What is it that God is calling you to do? Think about it. Pray about it. Talk to others about it. And then, filled with the grace God, go off and do it!

Comments

One Response to “What Shall I Say?”

Isaac OBannon on February 24th, 2008 9:24 pm

Thank you for this brief post, Pastor Meredith. I have slowly come to realize that God has been calling me to a greater good- to teaching or the ministry. When I was ready to hear that call, He let me.

I am middle-aged (37) with a degree in journalism- what are the first steps I should take in seeking ordainment? I understand that a return to college is necessary, but where- does it have to be one of the major Lutheran seminaries or is a “religious studies” degree at another institution accepatable? I am ELCA, with home church in Norman, Oklahoma, family church in Porterville, CA, and ancestral church in Northwood, ND.

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