GOD’S CALLING

And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home. 

(Luke 1:21-23)

What would you do if an angel appeared and gave you a glorious promise? I doubt most of us would do what Zechariah did. Luke tells us: he kept right on working. And then, “when his time of service was ended, he went to his home.”

Really, it’s like that for us too, isn’t it? You may have just won the Nobel Prize, but you still have to change the kitty litter. You get married, start your dream job, or have some wonderful spiritual experience—but the dishes are waiting, you need to put gas in the car, and your child needs his homework checked.

Zechariah got on with the job—because it was his job, it was the calling God had given him. God’s promise added to his life—it did not replace it. In the same way, God’s promise to you is Jesus, our Savior. As you carry out your responsibilities, whatever they may be, Jesus lives in you and His forgiving love shines through you. And the people around you will see that light and be drawn to Jesus, by the Holy Spirit’s gift.

Dear Father, use my role in life to bring other people to trust in Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

Reflect & Discuss

1. What jobs or roles in life do you have?
2. How do they impact other people?
3. Tell about a time when God used someone else’s work to give you His love and mercy.