Through the Waters
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Through the Waters is the blog of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Christian vocation ministries. Because the ministry of Christian vocation affirms the need for all baptized Christians – including Presbyterians - to identify and claim their call to discipleship in each decision and life choice, this blog is designed to serve as a resource for youth and young adults, as well as those in ministry with them, to assist the Holy Spirit in God’s movement in this journey through the waters. Take some time to read and think about your own responses to the questions posed here. For additional resources, we suggest that you visit our website.
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Me, Myself, and I... and God and God's People
Last week at the PC(USA)’s 220th General Assembly I was given a great gift by being able to interview various participants about their encounters with God’s presence. I’m still a bit awe-struck just as I have been each time I have had this opportunity.
The people I interviewed were from different backgrounds and had very different experiences. On the outset, it appeared the one common denominator was their denomination (we were at GA after all). The stories, though, reflected another theme. While experiences with God began in a variety of ways, there wasn’t a single story in which the person travelled that journey alone. In every case, there were others who guided, accompanied, and nudged. It was never just “me and God.” It was always “me, God, and some of God’s people.”
Too often people talk about their call related to what I heard God say or what God wants me to do. While that is certainly significant, the call we hear from the community is just as important. It is often through those around us that God’s voice can be heard the strongest – assuming of course that we’re surrounding ourselves with those who have our best interest and God’s vision at heart. It is those with whom we interact who can help us identify our gifts and our strengths. It is those who know us best who can challenge us to go down faithful paths that may not be those we would choose for ourselves.
Each of the people whose stories I heard last week identified others who helped them learn more about God and about themselves. Eventually, those two ideas merged. None of it happened in a vacuum. None of it occurred without at least one other significant individual to walk alongside. With whom are you walking?
Who has been a part of your encounters with God?
Who has tapped you on shoulder, recognizing your gifts, skills, and needs?
How has your relationship with God grown deeper due to the involvement of someone else?
How have you made an impact on the faith journey of another?
- Posted at 1:27 p.m.
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