The Call

Many of us have heard that the word vocation comes from the Latin word vocare, which means to call. I don’t know about you, but this idea of being “called” has often seemed strange to me. Is it just doing his will? Then, does taking out the trash become a vocation? Is it hearing and responding to a specific task? Then, isn’t every good work a vocation? Can I have two vocations then? Like being a mom and a nurse or a teacher and a priest?

The fact that there are “vocational schools” confuses the matter. I am easily confused.

I simply don’t get things unless I tear them down to their (sometimes stark) fundamental reality. 

What does it mean to be called?

To be called means to be destined. What God “says” comes to be. In the beginning, God created the world through the Word. I, therefore, find it beautiful that we are not “told” by God what to do (as so many of us wish we would be). If he told us, it would be “poof” you’re a spouse, “poof” you’re a missionary. In his great mercy and goodness, he does not force this upon us. Instead, he calls – which means that we must answer – or it remains only a voice expanding throughout the atmosphere.

Second thing, if he calls us, it means that he has created us to be sanctified (made whole and happy) in a particular way. The Lord does not do things arbitrarily. Outside of time and space his love moves the universe toward the good for all creation. Therefore, no matter how thoroughly astounded someone might be that he is calling them to the priesthood or consecrated life, it is for not only their good, but the good of the whole world. We must trust that God wills our good.

Finally, if his word is creative, and his will is all good, then he will give us the necessary grace to live and flourish wherever he calls us. When the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she was afraid. She did not understand the ins and outs of how it would happen and work out. She undoubtedly knew she was made worthy only by his grace. She trusted in the call of the Lord to transform and support, create and sanctify her entire person. Mary knew that a response was necessary. She also understood that this response was to grant the all-merciful God permission to fulfill his Word, his call in her.

“Let it be done unto me, according to your Word.”

At a certain point in your life, God will call.  You may be tempted by 10,000 “what-ifs” that flood your mind, a million butterflies in your stomach, and the thumping of your heart. However, rest assured that this call is an infinitely powerful call, capable of transforming you into that very person you long to be and to which you are beckoned. It is the sound of a sweet challenge, a promised victory, and a guide for how to spend the rest of your life becoming the person you were destined to be from the moment love created you.

Don’t run away. Don’t close your ears. Just listen. Respond, and let the Divine dialogue begin.

For more information about the Father Kolbe Missionaries of the Immaculata: www.kolbemission.org/en/home We have a great page for youth and vocations.

For more information on vocations and taking the first step email us: communications@kolbemissionusa.com