Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God. – 1 Corinthians 1:1a
With the return to school, our household has slipped into the familiar patterns and habits of autumn. Efficiency becomes a necessity at this time of year more than any other, as I complete my rounds each day: devotions, exercise, planning and preparing meals, house cleaning, working on freelance writing assignments, home schooling my kids, managing our budget, and so on.
Long ago, I looked at these tasks as necessary, but not necessarily important in the scheme of things.
How could changing diapers, washing dishes, and drilling my children on their spelling words really matter?
But one day, I heard a revolutionary idea that changed my attitude toward the work of homemaking, home schooling, and parenting: it was just as much a calling from God as being a pastor, or CEO, or senator.
Any calling from God should be looked at as a mission, an assignment from Him meant to bring Him glory, and – if we will let it – bring us joy.
Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. – Psalm 16:11
When Nehemiah was called by God to rebuild the temple and portions of Jerusalem, he faced all sorts of adversity. Eventually, however, under Nehemiah’s leadership, the people found a way to work together, finding purpose and joy in their mission.
So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared. – Nehemiah 4:21
And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel. Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. – Nehemiah 8:1, 21
Through the years, I have learned to appreciate the joys of my life’s mission: the smell of baking bread; the chatter of my children as we discuss a thorny topic in school; the touch of my husband’s hand on my shoulder as I sit paying bills; the peaceful, late-night solitude of a clean kitchen and a hot cup of tea; the feeling of accomplishment after meeting a writing deadline. Most of all, I know I am doing what I’m meant to do, during this season of my life.
I truly hope you find joy in the work God has called you to do!
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps. – 1 Peter 2:21
What’s your mission? How do you find joy in it each day? I appreciate your comments.
My Way Home 
I’m not exactly sure what my mission is. I think being understanding along with being supportive and completing my school work are important components of my life. I enjoyed your sentiment regarding the hot cup of tea and solitude. I find happiness in baking, which I should definitely do more often, the clicking of a keyboard, and seeing calmness and relief in others. Blessings!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much for your input. The clicking of a keyboard is indeed a delight. I was outside today reflecting that the wind in the leaves is another small joy. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, nature holds so many reminders of God’s presence 🙂 I actually just wrote about that! Blessings!
LikeLiked by 1 person
In a general sense, my mission is to take on whatever God throws my way day by day. The key, and it takes work, is to stay ready for unexpected and varied situations. Sometimes, all I should do is listen to someone, while staying in the moment and being ready to put on my counselor hat if necessary. On other occasions, I may need to assertively direct a conversation. I’m rambling a bit as I’m getting sleepy, but I think the key to any believer’s mission is to keep himself/herself open, allowing God to work through them toward a greater good.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I do understand what you’re saying, Mike. I need to be more flexible and open to whatever God might send my way.
LikeLike
Over the past decade or two, though some of it was already happening before, education was outside where it needed to be. Our children are the most precious and deserve to grow up with innocence, fun, and curiosity. What’s happening is our children, in most places, are being propagandized, their childhood removed with all the rhetoric and inappropriate social subjects, and being turned against real responsibility and fun.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I agree! “Real responsibility and fun” are vital for our children’s well-being and preparation for adulthood.
LikeLiked by 1 person