Answering the Call

Growing up, I always believed that answering the call of God on my life would mean full time ministry, preaching His word, something BIG.  But, I'm starting to realize that sometimes that call is just for me to write, or encourage others, or intercede.  Those are gifts and talents He's given me, so instead of burying them, perhaps I should use them!  I guess it takes some growing up, knowing the Lord on a more intimate level, and trusting that He will do right by you. 

Honestly, if you told me 20 years ago that I would be a suburban mom driving a mini van, I would have laughed and said you were missing it.  I was in bible college at the time, and truly believed that I would be a full-time missionary, or traveling minister for the rest of my life.  I thought for sure I'd be married by 20, and have 7, yes SEVEN, kids by age 30.  I had this Utopian life all planned out for myself, and I didn't give a second thought to anything else.  So, when 20 came and went, all the way to age 27, I was confused and couldn't figure out why God wasn't matching up to my plans.  HA!  As if the Almighty would follow my plan.  Things I know now at age 38. 

So, when I find myself wondering what it is I'm supposed to "do", I often go back to the little things I've seen in my life that had to be the hand of God and not my own doing.  Sharing Jesus with the high school football player that sat behind me in Government class, writing songs and poems about God's love, encouraging friends and family, and just praying over people.  I KNOW that God has gifted me to pray, so why does it seem so insignificant?  The truth is that intercessors are necessary to the church, to the community and to the world. 

God is so good.  I love having a heart to pray for people who need prayer, and really, who doesn't need prayer for something.  Thankful for God's word, Hebrews 4:16 (ESV) says "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."  Thank God we can boldly go before His throne of grace in times of prayer!  I am now daily answering the call God has placed on me to pray.  I feel at peace knowing THIS is my big call, THIS is what I was created for, and THIS is my purpose!