Do you ever wonder, "Will God send me a sign that I have a vocation?" 

 

If so, what should I be looking for?

 

God gives us a lot of credit. We are given an intellect and will, so God rightly treats us as rational and intelligent creatures. We must use our wits - so to speak - to comprehend God's plan. Miraculous signs still happen, but they are not God's normal way of communication. To look only for the supernatural would not be prudent. However, Christian teaching acknowledges three "natural signs" which God uses to communicate his will to us!

 

1) The first natural sign is a desire for religious life. Are you drawn towards aspects of the religious or consecrated life? Emotions and feelings are fleeting, but the desires of the heart will continue to make themselves known. You may still have fears or second thoughts about religious life, but is there a peace that is present when you imagine that life? Do you recognize it as a source of joy?

 

It is important to keep in mind that God calls us freely, and waits for our response. No one should be pressured into religious life out of a sense of guilt or debt to God, nor should they join an order because other people have painted them into that role!

 

2) The next sign builds on the first. It is desiring religious life... for the right reason. Are you motivated by love of Christ and service to his Church? Do you want to live your faith in community with like-minded Catholics who hold each other accountable? Is religious life a path to holiness, and a more perfect imitation of Christ? These are all good forms of motivation!

 

Likewise, there are incorrect reasons for discerning a vocation. A person may see religious life as a refuge from their problems. Is it an escape from failed romantic relationships, or from commitment to another person? Is it merely security against unemployment or loneliness? Or could it be a status symbol, a way to achieve recognition and respect from others?

 

If your thoughts include of a mix of these motivations, do not be discouraged! Until we become saints, we will not be completely selfless. If we have some spiritual motivation - even if it is not purely spiritual - God can work with that! We all have room to grow.

 

3) Lastly, there is the sign of fitness, or ability to live the religious life. Christ came that we might have life, and that we might have it abundantly! He does not want us to grow in holiness and community if it is continuous emotional and mental drain. If we have serious problems getting along with others; if we're on psychiatric medication, or are physically handicapped in some way, religious life is probably not our calling.

 

The saints lived joyfully and generously. We are called to live in imitation of them. Not everyone is cut out for religious life, just as not everyone is cut out for married life and parenthood. We must recognize if it is practical for us to live our vocation this way.

 

Do these three natural signs apply to you? Do they encourage you in your discernment?

 

Based on an article by Fr. Martin Pable, Order of Capuchin Friars Minor.