Monday, July 6, 2009

High Calling Indeed

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)





While refusing to succumb to the allure of the “self-esteem” trap, we should not, however, lose sight of what it really is that gives you and I as believers our distinct claim to fame: “The high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” It has nothing to do with lineage, looks, wealth, or even character. It is the summons from God not only to become a part of His family through identification with His Son, Jesus Christ, but also to fulfill the high and holy purpose He has for us.

Think of some of the individuals called by God that we read about in His Word. Abraham (Heb. 11:8), called to leave his kindred and country to initiate a new Theocratic nation; Moses (Ex. 3:4), called to deliver the same people from the bondage of a foreign power; Samuel (1 Sam. 3:4), called to rescue a corrupt clergy; Isaiah (Isa. 49:1), called to bring a backslidden people back to God; the disciples (Mark 6:7), called to spread the message of the risen Savior to those who had seen Him die; and Paul (Gal. 1:15), called to preach the Gospel to those outside the fold, but inside the Grace of God. These all received the call of God and responded accordingly.

Now, just think of it; you and I are recipients of the same high calling. We have been adopted into the family of God, added to the roster of the winning team. Our mission is to determine the direction of own personal course, planned by God, then to “press toward the mark”—the finish line. Our place in the world for as long as we are here is too important to slough off or let slide.

It is a high calling indeed; and I, for one, intend to fulfill it.

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