WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”
These long-treasured words were penned in the 1800s by Alfred Lord Tennyson. They might guide us as we celebrate this day of prayer. Why bother? Does prayer really have an effect?
Those questions bring us close to the heart, the very reason for today’s celebration. The great need we have for faith-full and prayer-full people. People who help us remember who we are, why we are here, and what we are meant to do while we are here.
As an example, the experienced teacher who encourages the one who is new and unsure as they step into a new profession. The colleague who brings that same gift to those who are frustrated, frazzled or frightened by the tides of change. Who offers strength and hope to those who are simply worn out from years of giving, perhaps feeling unsure if their efforts are bearing any good or lasting fruit. The one who sits in a staff meeting and who walks the halls, the classrooms, the lunchroom, and the playground, almost always making a positive difference. They set an example in word and action. Their very way of being helps everyone to grow in wisdom, to stay strong and to live with integrity.
Jesus, the exemplar of our Christian vocation, was sent by a merciful God. He came to give us a lived example of how we can also live well. Called Lord, Master and Teacher, many of his lessons are well-known in the world. One of them is the basis for the almost universally understood “Good Samaritan Law.” The life of Jesus is a template, helping us to be faith-full, fully receiving the invitation offered by our Creator.
None of us can be exactly like Jesus. We are not living in that place and time. We may not be the same age, the same gender, have the same family connections, or the same professional background. We do, however, know something about his back-story, the years of his public ministry, the many stories he shared, and the lived example of his very human life.
The big question is this: What in the life of Jesus can guide me? There is always something. The answer is found in responding to the invitation to come really close to him and to listen attentively. In and through the unique experiences of my life, Jesus will help me to live well.
This is vocation – the vocare – the unique call – the personal invitation offered to each and every one of us. We might be stopped in our tracks, each and every time we consider this question: What is the unique and personal invitation that God is extending to me – at this very moment – in my life?
Sometimes, the voices and the choices seem too loud, too many and too conflicting. It might be helpful to consider this piece of advice: In this world, there will be many things that will catch your eye. Follow the one that captures your heart.
This is the essence of vocation: to come to the quiet inner place where we can really listen as God speaks to our hearts. The place where our hearts become ever more open, fully receiving the love that transforms us. We are gently led, through, and beyond, all our fears. We are assured of rest, restoration, and a deep, personal relationship with the One who gives us life.
May our hearts know the truth of these words:
I am with you always, till the end of the age.
Matthew 28.20
May we live our vocation well, deeply trusting in this truth:
The favours of the Lord are not exhausted, His mercies are not spent,
They are renewed each morning, so great is his faithfulness.
Lamentations 3.22-23
Today, we pray, especially for those whose vocation is to strengthen, support and sustain ours.
Brenda Merk Hildebrand has a deep passion for lifelong learning, education, and spiritual and palliative care. She appreciates the opportunities that have come her way to share life’s transforming journey with others: one-with-one, through intentional group settings, in animating workshops and retreats, and by way of her writing. Brenda is a long-time contributor to Living with Christ.
