Calling Considered

Rev. Dr. Scott K. Seidler

…[you] are called to belong to Jesus Christ.  Romans 1:6

A classic 1970s game show had contestants wagering how many notes it would take them to name a particular tune.  The contestant able to identify the song in the fewest notes would win.  The apostle Paul invites his readers to name the tune of his letter to the Romans.  Instead of notes, he uses words.  Instead of prize money, the reward is eternal life and a more faithful kind of Christianity.

No less than four times does Paul sound the same note:  called.  Paul is called to be an apostle.  He is charged with calling all nations to the obedience of faith.  He writes to those in Rome who are called to be holy, reminding them they are called to belong to Christ Jesus. 

You, too, are among those called to belong to Christ Jesus.  You, too, are called to be holy.  You have a calling that comes directly from God and is a life-changing gift.  This call to holiness is one which God accomplishes in you through faith in Jesus Christ.  We do not manufacture it.  Rather, God provides it to us freely.  The call of God truly is music to our ears.             

Great Shepherd, our Lord Jesus Christ, confirm us in the faith that You know us, love us and call us by name.  Amen.