Chef Eric Trager & me, circa 2008

This Sunday, we turn our attentions to the ways God calls us to serve the mission we share, enabling God’s vision to be made tangibly real in this world. From a young age, I knew that I was called to use my time, energy, and talents in the restaurant industry. As I matured in my faith I came to understand that calling was God at work in and through me. Then, as I became more and more involved in the work of the church, I could sense that God was calling me ever deeper into ministry. So what’s your call story? How has God been at work through you?

The prophet Isaiah’s call story begins with awe and ends with surrender. In a vision of God’s majesty, Isaiah is overwhelmed by his unworthiness: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). Yet, in that moment, God purifies him, removing his guilt and preparing him to serve. When God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responds, “Here I am; send me!” Isaiah’s transformation shows us that God’s calling isn’t about our perfection but our willingness.

As theologian Henri Nouwen reminds us, “We are not the healers, we are not the reconcilers, we are not the givers of life. We are sinful, broken, vulnerable people who need as much care as anyone we care for. The mystery of God’s love is that God uses our brokenness to create beautiful things.” Isaiah’s call demonstrates this truth: God doesn’t wait for us to feel ready or worthy. God calls us as we are, equips us for the task, and sends us into the world.

This week, reflect on how God might be calling you to serve. Where do you see a need for God’s love, justice, or mercy? How might you respond to God’s invitation, even if you feel unprepared? God’s generous spirit equips and empowers us, not because we are perfect but because we are willing. Like Isaiah, may we have the courage to say, “Here I am; send me!” and trust God to lead the way.

May God’s peace find you today. -Pastor Peter

Let’s pray… Holy One, cleanse our hearts, strengthen our spirits, and guide our steps, that we may boldly answer your call to serve with humility and love. Amen.