A Call

     I have a call to be University Pastor at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN.  Within the usual order of our tradition, divine calls may be extended by a congregation or institution to a pastor or professional church worker.  At that time, a candidate deliberates two calls - his current call and the one just received.  And so I enter a period of 3-4 weeks in which I search out where God desires me to be used.  I know I have a national (and international) readership, so I want you all to be informed. 

      I will be transparent in saying that  I am deeply burdened by this call.  Bobbi and I have come to make St. Louis home for our family and ministry.   We have raised our kids here, and our family has become imbedded in this community.  I have labored extensively in this field, and I feel there is much to do.  And now there is a call to go elsewhere, and I must consider its many merits. 

     There are certainly practical issues to consider (salary, housing, benefits, family,  job descriptions, etc.).  But what gives me fear is that I must lay myself bare before the Holy Spirit.   I am put to the test by God, forced to wrestle with him.  What scares me is that wrestling with God may cause injury.  Ask Jacob, whose hip was put out of socket.  I will enter a time of serious prayer, and I'm afraid the answer will hurt. 

     I am fearful of praying "Thy will be done."  But I cannot avoid it.  It must be prayed by my lips. 

I will move at your impulse.
I am under your spell, compelled by your call.
I strain my ears to hear your voice.
Show me the way, and I will walk in it.
I'm at your service . . .

     Your fervent prayers for this pastor and his family are appreciated.  I know I do not consider this alone.