Have You Heard The Call?
As a mom of three adult children, I’m constantly reminded that it’s not my will, but God’s will be done in their lives. As a parent, my primary goal was to raise good and productive human beings, who could one day leave our home and sustain themselves. Of course, my husband and I want them to prosper, but we also want to protect them from all of the mistakes, and coulda, shoulda, woulda’s that we had in our own lives. We planted seeds of the spirit of love in and around them, nurtured, and provided every opportunity that we could afford. In return, they should do whatever we say, right? LOL If only it were that simple.
For God so loved the world...
Before we were born, God gave each of us a gift called PURPOSE to share with His creations. His desire was that we would be good and productive humans and that we would listen to the spirit as it guides us along this path called life towards delivering our specially created, unique PURPOSE. He has prepared a place for us and provided every opportunity that only He can afford us. It’s already ours!
Here is what I know for sure...
All 7.53 billion of us roaming this earth have PURPOSE! Notice that I did not say ‘A’ purpose, because purpose is not a singular word. Purpose is the gift that keeps on giving. It constantly evolves and grows as we mature spiritually and emotionally.
I hear a voice saying, but what if I don’t know my purpose? How do I know if I am on the right path?
There are several paths that eventually lead us to our purpose. Some of the paths are more rugged and painful, but it is still a path. How do I know this? Romans 8:28 says “And we know that ALL things work together for the good to those who are called according to His purpose.” That purpose was not reserved for a privileged, elite few. We are ALL called according to His purpose.
“If you have life, you have purpose.” Carolyn Myss
Finding your purpose, calling, or mission requires some soul searching. It may be something that seemed unrealistic, silly, or childish at one time. But, allow yourself to consider all things, without judging them as good/bad or right/wrong. Loosen up your brain and let it explore for now without the reality checks. Try these strategies to get you started.
1. Slow down -Rest your body, mind, and soul.
2. Immerse yourself in the present moment. -Take in your environment and focus on your senses.
3. Become aware of the things that make you smile: -Movies and books that resonate with you deeply
-People who inspire you
-Things that bring you joy
-What you loved to do as a child
-Things that make you forget - make time standstill
4. Remember the things that make you angry: -Injustices that push your buttons
-Policies that make you want to scream
-Social challenges that break your heart and make you furious
5. Allow yourself to explore your memories. -What did you love to do before you got too busy/tired/old/broke to enjoy it?
-Recall the wrongs you wanted to right and the problems you wanted to solve.
6. Make time. -Prioritize and embrace things that make time stand still and/or energize you to take action.
7. Do something. Move toward your purpose, no matter how small the action: -Make a call.
-Attend a meeting.
-Do online research.
-Start an online group.
-Ignite the fire.
8. Illuminate. Be a light in the darkness. Keep shining your light so that others can see God in you. Show the world that God has sheep in high places. Listen to the spirit, and at every turn, make choices that honor your father.
