Responding to the Call Mark 1-3

In these passages we read about the disciples responding to the call. You may ask, “How do I figure out my calling?” Great question. Here is a thought: you are called to be holy. God is more interested in the condition of your heart than what you do with your hands. If your heart is right, he will move you where he wants you. So start there, offer him all of yourself.

Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment. He said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.” He then added, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

How do I learn to love God this way? When I met my wife, I was immediately taken by her blues eyes, bright smile, and wonderful wit. I wanted to spend as much time with her as I could. I had obligations, but when I was free I wanted to know where she was and how I could get next to her. This is what the disciples experienced as they traveled with Jesus and spent time with him. They got to know him, love him, and trust his voice.

If you want to love God and know his will, then pursue him. He will not hide his purpose from you, but you must make time to be with him, to get to know him and trust his voice.

Then, as you get to know him you begin to look for ways to invest yourself in the things he loves. He loves people, so love the things he loves. Invest in people—they are the only thing that lasts for eternity.

As you invest time in your relationship with God, and you invest time loving the people around you, your gifting and calling will become clear. That’s how you know.