So often we are expecting God to ask us to do something big, when all He is asking us to do is "Come."
I came across the above, anonymous quote, just last week and I found myself immediately identifying with it. So, being an "average guy," I thought it might strike a chord with you as well.
God took me back to a night sitting on the hood of my Cutlass Ciera (honest, that's how Oldsmobile spelled "sierra") when He and I had quite the discussion. You see, I was finishing school in Indiana, working at a print shop, and pastoring a small, country, Methodist church (filled with good people, mind you, but not in a hurry to go anywhere).
Things were going pretty well, but not at all like I thought they should be going. Just weeks away from completing my pastoral education, I was just sure that God was going to use me to change the world. Landing in a town with 28 houses, a grain co-op and a church wasn't exactly what I had in mind when I thought of doing something "big" for God.
Through the magic of memory (a pretty cool gift God gave to us, if you think about it), here's how the conversation unfolded...
- ME: Thanks, Lord, for all you're doing for us here.
- GOD: I'll continue to do it, Kirk, as long as you continue seeking Me.
- ME: It's been kind of frustrating, though, Lord, 'cause everyone here seems to be content with things as they are. No one really wants to grow or try new things, or reach out.
- GOD: I understand, Kirk, but what if I told you that this is the plan I have for your life - to stay in this place and take care of the people here in this small town, in a church that probably will always be this size.
- ME: You're kidding, right? This is just a "launch point" to bigger and better, right? You wouldn't just leave me here, would You?
- GOD: What do you think?
- ME: I think that you made me for much more important things than this...for greater things...bigger things.
- GOD: Are you saying that the people here aren't important?
- ME: (Gulp!) NO, not at all! I was just expecting more.
- GOD: More what?
- ME: More impact, more exposure, more success, more money...
- GOD: Kirk, you need to figure out whether you're going to be content with what I have planned for you, whether or not it's what you think is best. Do you trust Me enough to believe that what I have planned is the best plan for you?
- ME: (Silence)
To be honest, it was several days before I got back to God on this issue. But when I did, I'll never forget surrendering my will (again...and many times since then) to His will, choosing to trust His ways over my ways. And you know what? The ride has been exhilarating...not always what I would choose or expect, but absolutely unforgettable!
Now my only expectation is that God will use me, bless me, and make me a blessing no matter where or with whom I find myself. And that's all I need to know!
