This past weekend, I attended the ordination of a former intern from Canton Lutheran, Mark Eliason.  Following the ordination, Mark shared a few words (and a ton of emotion) as he offered gratitude to God and to his family and friends that had supported and encouraged him these past many years.  Like most pastors I know, Mark's journey to follow God's call into ordained ministry was not an easy one and it got me to thinking about how it is that God calls each and every one of us into discipleship.  It also got me thinking about the challenges and joys that await any of us who would find the courage to listen and then to follow.

 

First, I was reminded that it is our default position not to follow God's leading.  We want things to be safe, predictable and problem-free.  But following God's leading means stepping out in faith and being willing to be a fool for Christ's sake.

 

Second, I was reminded that even though often times we can't experience or even be sure of God's presence with us, God will always be there.  Often times, we can't see God's leading until we look back, yet the promise is there; when we follow God, God follows us.

 

Third, I was reminded that God calls each of us into ministry.  Some, like Mark, are called into ordained ministry, others are called into ministries of teaching, compassion, listening and many, many more.  The point is that God calls each one of us.  And God not only calls us but equips us by his Holy Spirit to do this work, even when we don't think we have the gifts or skills to do it.  God calls, God equips...and then God waits for our response.

 

Mark's ordination is a reminder for all of us to consider God's calling to ministry in our lives.  It is a challenge to let go of our fears and self-doubts.  It is an encouragement to see again the joy of taking the road less traveled -- the road of the cross -- the road of following Jesus.

 

Mark would tell us that the path he has taken these last many years of following God's call has been the hardest thing he has ever done.  Yet, he would also tell us it is the best thing he has ever done.  The best things in life, rarely come easy.  And there's nothing better than the joy of following Jesus.