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And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3: 17 A
A Dinosaur, Chuck Norris, Youth Pastor, Scientist, Actor, Camp Counselor, and Politician: That is the list of what I wanted to be when I grew up- starting when I was four until I was twenty. I explored most of these, being a Dinosaur or Chuck Norris were sadly out of the question, and nothing stuck. Halfway through my junior year of college I dropped out, partly because I had no direction and still didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up. When I came home, I got a job with DeKalb County starting my career in Public Safety. I began to feel that maybe I had found my calling, but after getting a Criminal Justice Degree and moving into a state position, I wasn’t so sure. Something was missing. I was watching men who had gone to prison at seventeen come out twenty years later lost without the ability to build a life for themselves.
Serving as a community coach for high school sports and having a girlfriend (now my beautiful wife) who wanted me to find less dangerous work led me to explore teaching. When I entered the world of education, my soul was fulfilled. I loved connecting with students and watching the light bulb come on when they understood something. Being in Career Technical education allowed me to see students discover their passions early in life. I saw their excitement as they began their paths to fulfilling careers. Eventually, I moved into administration to support teachers and students in learning. Two years ago, I was called to make another change and move from running a building to supporting schools and technical colleges statewide.
As I look back over the chapters of my vocational journey, I can see how each chapter is related to the other, creating a full picture of where God has used my talents and spirit to serve the greater good by helping others find their vocation. Several years ago, I was speaking with a pastor and our conversation led him to ask what I did for a living. I told him that I had considered ministry several times throughout my life, but had found joy and meaning through my work in education. He stopped for a second and then told me “Your work is your ministry. Thank you for helping others find their joy.” In closing, I want to share this quote by Frederick Buechner; “Vocation is the place where our deep gladness meets the world's deep need.” I hope everyone finds the perfect vocation and that all of us remember that whatever we do in our vocation serves the kingdom of God.
Let us pray. Dear God, thank you for the many chapters in our vocational journey that lead us closer to you and others. Help us to remember that all that we do we do in your name and in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen
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