FOCUS ON THE VISION
DENISE WALTON
As you reflect on your relationship with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, can you identify times when you felt really close to God and sensed in your heart that God had something for you to do?
In his book, “Hearing God’s Call,” author Ben Campbell Johnson writes:
God has always called human beings to share in the divine mission in the world – and he still does. God calls men and women to ordained ministry and he calls other followers of Jesus Christ, laity, to special ministries both in the church and outside the church.
The call of God comes long before you hear it, it lingers until you name it, and then it never completely goes away!
The call of God, while mysterious, is not limited to a few, but is available for all believers of Jesus Christ. It requires discernment both personal and within the community of believers.
The call of God is uninterrupted. God is always calling!
As we journey through the season of Lent and Eastertide, the church is called to disciple persons being initiated into the Christian life in baptism. The church is also called to help persons in the community of faith focus on the journey toward Easter and reaffirm the baptismal covenant.
For some, the journey will involve reducing distractions in our lives, embracing simple living, and fasting. For others, the journey through Lent and Eastertide will focus on adding something positive.
How has your church answered the call of God to invite and engage others to join the journey of Lent through Easter?
Remember, God is always calling, but we must choose to answer the call.
Share your stories with us about the Lenten and Eastertide journey by contacting Kara Witherow, Editor of the Advocate, (kara@sgaumc.com).
Rev. Denise Walton serves as the Assistant to the Bishop for Connectional Ministries. Contact her at denise@sgaumc.org.