The calling God has given you
‘Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.’ — Ephesians 5:1
“There are very few who realise what God would make of them if they abandoned themselves entirely to His hands, and let themselves be formed by His grace.” — St Ignatius of Loyola
At this point in the year—when the darker evenings are already returning and you’re digging out your beloved knitwear—we can often find ourselves reflecting about our lives and what we’re doing with them.
‘Calling’ is the big word that we like to throw around a lot as Christians. What’s my calling? What does God want me to do with my life? What’s my thing?
There’s nothing wrong with asking these questions. God made us to have purpose, to draw deep meaning and satisfaction from our work in the world.
But the truth is, discovering our ‘calling’ can easily unravel into a confusing and even paralysing experience that locks our focus on ourselves and away from the truth.
Because, if you trust in Jesus, you already have your calling.
“This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.” — John 6:29
“Students are not greater than their teacher. But the student who is fully trained will become like the teacher.” — Luke 6:40
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” — Matthew 28:19
Believe in Him. Become like Him. Bring others into His Kingdom.
That’s it. That’s why you’re alive. That’s what God wants you to give your life to.
Jesus has called us to follow Him. That means learning to love what He loves, hate what He hates, prioritise what He prioritises, see people how He sees to them, and suffer for the sake of others like He did.
And when you make becoming like Jesus your all-consuming goal, every other part of your life falls into its right place. Your time, your skills, your studies, your work, your relationships—everything will be directed towards living like Jesus, being transformed by His grace, and bringing Him glory wherever He has placed you.
Seek first His Kingdom, and let Him sort out the rest. Make Him your one necessary thing, and the joyful satisfaction you’ll gain will never be taken from you.
So, at the start of this new(ish) year, let’s commit to the calling that Jesus has given us:
To believe in Him.
To become like Him.
To bring others into His Kingdom.
I’m praying for you as we follow Jesus together this year.
Love,
Theo
