Commission their Calling

Last week a group of our high school youth spent a week at summer camp and experienced a unique encounter with God. Many came back with a sincere calling upon their life to serve God with their talents, abilities, and willingness.

In their own words are the excerpts by several of our young men and women (their ages in parentheses) who felt a definitive calling upon their life. In addition, is an observation or suggestion of how those of us with similar callings can come alongside and mentor each one.

Chris Biber (17):

God showed me that worship isn't about the notes I play, but how I use worship. The words in a song are more important than the notes.

Is the calling upon Chris' life that of a songwriter writing hymns of praise which draws the singer into the embrace of God's love and power? If so, what opportunities are available for him to put music to the words he writes and include them in worship? Perhaps, one of our music leaders can come alongside Chris, grow this ability and fulfill his calling.

Corbyn Gilbert (15):

God spoke to me very clearly and told me I was going to be a missionary.

The life of a missionary is not an easy one, though it may be one of the most rewarding. How can we ensure Corbyn is prepared for the missionary field?

J.T.(18):

Finding God again and being called into the vocational ministry as a worship pastor. I led worship for the first time. It was a great blessing.

There are many opportunities for J.T. to lead worship during weekly youth meetings, LIFE study groups, and of course, Sunday mornings. He has already taken the first courageous step in faith to fulfill his calling during summer camp by leading worship for the first time.

Shane Koozin (16):

I felt God was calling me to be a minister for him. I don't know when I'm going to be used, but I know that he is going to use me.

Shane is exploring his calling into the ministry, but is unsure about when or what that ministry is going to be. Is there a mentor who can help Shane discover his ministry and equip him to meet its needs? What are his talents, abilities, or gifts which hint at his future ministry?

Chris Merrell (15):

I loved being on the praise team...I believe that my future in God will be in worshipping musically.

There are a few great singers on the worship team who can teach Chris to sing or teach him how to play an instrument or provide him with resources to do both.

Darrien Trias (17):

[God] called me out to step forward and confirm my decision as being a youth pastor.

Darrien says his decision is confirmed. Maybe it's time to start putting him into those youth leadership positions and give him those opportunities to explore his calling. We can start with small opportunities and move forward with grander opportunities of service.

This article is only meant to encourage the good folk at EHCC, who share the same talents as these young men and women, to come alongside them and help fulfill their calling. In a few short words, to be a mentor lest they should become discouraged and their calling remain unfulfilled.

I had similar experiences at the summer camps I attended in my youth, but my calling was laid to the wayside for the lack of guidance. It was only years later in my adult life and with the inception of the internet I could fulfill my calling--writing. It's an "if only" regret which resides in the past and I'm over it. I'm over it because, like J.T., I took a step in faith and started writing. Though it's mainly a hobby rather than a profession I am doing it to the best of my ability with satisfactory joy. EHCC has provided another opportunity to hone my skills, find my niche, and share my heart. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then words are the doorway to the heart.

Will we share in their calling and give them opportunity, the means to fulfill it, and commission their calling?