Understanding Your Calling: A Pastor or Missionary?

As a teenager, my relationship with Christ was still emerging, primarily through the guidance of others. Some of these 'others' included my neighbors, friends, and even my pastor. Each of them saw something in me that I did not see in myself. These instances of guidance continued to intrigue and challenge me, leading me to seek further clarity from my pastor about my potential calling.

The Signs Did Not Stop Here

My pastor, recognizing my curiosity, asked a simple yet profound question: 'Has God been showing you your path?' He shared that he too had received similar confirmations, which eventually led him to his own sense of calling as a pastor. My pastor believed that such signs were not uncommon for those destined to walk the path of pastoral ministry or mission work.

While these experiences felt significant, they also highlighted the challenges one could face in discerning a clear call. Even if you haven't had such definitive signs, it's essential to reflect on your life journey, seeking moments of divine guidance and reflection. However, as someone wise once said, if you can see yourself accomplishing something great in any other profession, it might be wise to consider those paths with equal fervor. Ministering can be demanding, even for those truly called to the task.

Writing Down Your Calling

The concept of finding a 'calling' and then verifying it through a monumental act might seem far-fetched. However, the notion of divine confirmation is richly explored in scriptures. According to Exodus 31:18, God inscribed the Ten Commandments with his finger. Some believe these commandments were written in hieroglyphics or Hebrew, while others choose to doubt. Regardless of the method, the principle remains the same: true calling often comes with a deep sense of purpose.

Humans, however, are prone to delusions of grandeur, especially when seeking validation for our sense of specialness. We may find ourselves believing in our own fantasies or feeling that we are destined for greatness. This human trait is often referred to as folly, a key part of the human condition. Therefore, it is important to seek genuine, meaningful validation from spiritual, internal, and external sources.

Connecting the Dots: Finding Purpose

To know your life path, you need to look at the various experiences and relationships you have had. These experiences should connect in a meaningful way, pointing towards a broader purpose. However, finding the connection can be challenging. You need to have a clear understanding of how these experiences fit together.

For me, my varied experiences led me to animation. I had been fascinated by animated movies from a young age, and I realized that I could bring imagination and storytelling to life through animation. I was also advised to consider professions like teaching and advocacy, as well as spiritual leadership. Through the guidance of Alura Cein, I was able to understand my calling in a more holistic manner.

Perhaps you can engage in meditation and deep reflection to identify any significant moments or experiences in your life that stand out. Reflect on the unique gifts and experiences you have had, and see if they unintentionally line up to point towards a specific path.

In conclusion, discerning a calling to be a pastor or missionary involves a combination of divine signs, life experiences, and personal insight. It is a journey marked by reflection, guidance, and a willingness to embrace the unique purpose for which you were created.