A Calling and a Mission

He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

2 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV)

It is not always easy for a new believer to identify their calling—or even the gift of the Holy Spirit that has been bestowed upon them for the edification of the Church. Most often, they do what they believe to be beneficial for the Church, or they put their talents to use whenever the assembly's leaders ask them to lend a hand in a specific ministry. Those who are not asked to do anything simply content themselves with coming to church to worship, pray, and listen to the pastor's message. Yet, they still aspire to be like Moses, David, Elisha, or other figures of the Old Testament, in order to feel significant.

While in the days of the Old Testament, God chose specific individuals to send forth to accomplish His will, the New Testament changed everything; for God's call is now addressed to all who come to Christ and accept Him as their Lord and Savior. Those who, in the past, were called and appointed by God had the people of Israel as their mission field, regardless of the specific tasks they were required to perform. Today, in Jesus Christ, God no longer focuses solely on a single people whom He calls "His own"; rather, He casts His gaze upon the entire world—a world He desires to save and claim as His own.

Jesus Christ did not bear the cross for a small, select group of sinners—even though He chose only twelve apostles to succeed Him. He prepared them so that they, in turn, would be ready to do the same for you and for me. Whenever you find yourself meditating on the grace of God in Jesus Christ—that grace which has liberated you from the burden of your sins—remember also those who have not yet heard this Gospel of salvation and deliverance. It is then that you will understand: they need to know that Jesus has opened the door of the New Covenant to bring them back to God, and that it is your responsibility to proclaim this message to them. Such is your calling, and such is your mission. The Holy Spirit will take charge of the edification and regeneration.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.