Our Christian leadership culture often emphasizes the advancement of one’s career over their obedience to a divine Call of God. Within the tapestry of ministry, threads of divine purpose and personal preference are often interwoven, and the image of God’s Call becomes unclear. God’s voice is both a clarion call and a gentle whisper that echoes in the chambers of our soul, inviting us to embark on an unknown journey of obedience and mission. As first-followers of Christ, we are called to heed God’s divine invitation and to obey Him with unwavering faith and trust. Sometimes we do, sometimes we don’t.
Consider Abraham, who left his country, his people, and his real estate holdings to obey God’s call. Genesis 12: 1-3 says, “The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you, I will curse, and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Now consider my dear friends Rev. Tichaona and Nyarai Chiwashira, who were installed as Lead Pastors of Chetwynd Gospel Tabernacle on Sunday, January 28th, after arriving in Canada from Harare, Zimbabwe, on Wednesday, January 24th. In November 2022, Brenda and I met Pastor Tich and Nyarai and their beautiful children… Claire (12), Joshua (9), and Theodora (1); while serving on a mission trip in Zimbabwe, Africa. At that time, Pastor Tich served as the Academic Dean of Pan African Christian College and also pastored a thriving church in Harare, called Fountain of Hope. Pastor Tich heard God’s distinct and powerful voice on the Sunday we were together. God called him to leave his country, resign from his positions in ministry, and come to Canada as a missionary-pastor. Please join me in welcoming this beautiful family to our district network. Please feel free to send them a welcome message from our district family at tich.chitauro@gmail.com
Obedience to God’s call requires a surrender of our will and a willingness to trust in His divine plan, even when it seems unclear or challenging. The prophet Isaiah reminds us, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it'” (Isaiah 30:21). The call of God is not always convenient or comfortable; it often demands stepping into the unknown with faith as our guiding light.
Obedience to the call of God is not a one-time event but a daily commitment. It requires cultivating a relationship with God through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. As we navigate the complexities of life, the call of God serves as our compass, guiding us through stormy seas and tranquil waters alike.
Answering the call of God is a profound and transformative journey of obedience. As we yield to His voice, we discover the depth of His love, the splendour of His plan, and the joy of walking in alignment with His purpose. May we, as followers of Christ, embrace the call of God with open hearts, trusting in His guidance and surrendering to the divine adventure He has prepared for each of us.
