It is Labor Day week, and I suspect most of us will celebrate the Labor Day holiday by doing as little labor as possible. But there is another work to which all of us are called. It is God’s work of the Kingdom, which we celebrate in our baptism. We may not be called to lead as pastor, but all of us called to discipleship of Jesus Christ through which God may transform the world. Here are some stories of others whom God called.

PRAYER

O God who still calls men and women into the Kingdom: point me to where I can serve you faithfully and effectively. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday – Isaiah 6:1-13

Apparently, Isaiah was a priest serving in the Temple when he encountered the power and presence of God in an awesome way. And in the encounter God called him to a special ministry – one in which he would not likely experience much success. Yet, his ministry continues to instruct and inspire us yet today. When and where do you encounter God’s power and presence? How is God calling you?

Tuesday – Mark 1:16-20

Mark tells stories so concisely, one wonders if he is paying per word. Yet, in the midst of an ordinary day, Jesus appears and calls these first disciples. And they answer. Their lives are turned upside down, and in turn their witness has turned our world upside down. Where do you encounter Jesus in your ordinary routines? How does Jesus call you from ordinary routines into extraordinary life-changing opportunities?

Wednesday – 1 Samuel 3:1-21

Samuel was just a boy. He did not even recognize the voice of the Lord. Yet, he learned to listen and became one of the greatest spiritual leaders of our world. Could it be that God is calling you in ways that you do not yet recognize? How might God use your spiritual leadership in your family, your place of work or school, your neighborhood?

Thursday – Jeremiah 1:1-10

Jeremiah’s excuse was that he was too young. Who would listen to just a young boy? But God does not always wait until it is convenient. Those whom God calls, God also equips. And God used Jeremiah in a powerful way – in a season of crises in Israel’s history. How can God use you in a season of crises to bring hope and healing to our world?

Friday – Exodus 3:1-15

Moses was the master of excuses. More of the story continues in Exodus 4. But God’s call is compelling. God’s wisdom sees a much bigger picture than we do. And God’s purposes are sometimes mysterious to us. Moses eventually answered God’s call and became one of Israel’s greatest leaders. What excuses do you use when God calls you? Are they compelling … in God’s mind? What might happen if you simply trusted God?

Saturday – Genesis 12:1-9

We don’t know what kind of history Abram (Abraham) and Sarai (Sarah) had with God. It appears it comes out of the blue. But God called them to a great adventure. God offers a promise of blessing for the purpose of blessing. How has God blessed you? For what purpose has God given you these blessings? How are your blessings an answer to someone else’s prayers?