Then Moses said, “I must turn aside and see this great sight and see why the bush is not burned up.” When the Lord saw that he had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”
Exodus 3:3-4
A murderer, a runaway, a shepherd, yet called by God to be one of history’s greatest leaders. As this stewardship adventure begins there may have been no burning bush or voice from God, unless you count the call from your pastor, one of the directors, or an invitation to a campaign event. And yet make no mistake, no matter your background; you have been called by God to be part of this exciting adventure of faith. Just as God chose Moses, you have been chosen. Can you imagine that possibility? Can you begin to even consider that your participation in this adventure is not simply random chance, not simply a last gasp attempt to raise money? Can you believe God chose you; God called you?
Her name was Brenda. She was not the first choice of anyone for her particular position on the campaign leadership team. By all accounts, except God’s, Brenda was a “last resort.” As the campaign developed Brenda became a driving force, not due to influence or power but simply due to her quiet willingness to listen to the voice of God. As Brenda listened and opened her heart to God she became a powerful witness to God’s love and mercy. And, out of a profound sense of gratitude, Brenda made one of the lead gifts to her church’s capital campaign.
Questions to consider
Do I believe that God has called me to be part of this adventure?
Will I take the time to listen to the voice of God in the midst of this adventure?
Will I be willing to say yes to the call of God?
Prayer
Thank You, Lord, for calling me to be a part of this adventure in faith. Help me to be open to Your voice, to listen to Your call and to finally discern Your will for my life. “Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to thee.” I now pray for the rest of my church family, help us to be open to Your voice, to listen to Your call, to discern Your will for our lives. I pray in the name of Christ, Amen.
–From The Journey Begins: Devotional Guide, Scott McKenzie, PhD.
This devotion comes from a series of 21 daily devotions from the devotional guide for our capital campaign. (An earlier message, sent on October 20, 2015, included a message from Fr. John about using the guide as a prayer tool.)