WHAT IS YOUR PURPOSE

Have you ever wondered about what God had in mind for you, when you were created? In those moments when your mind wonders – when you are walking back and forth in your yard, cutting the grass; when you are cleaning the house; when you are doing those mundane things of life and your mind has time to wonder – what does He want of me? What is my purpose, according to God?

In the Old Testament book, I Samuel, we are told that God was very upset with Saul, the first king of Israel. God did not want His people to have a king. With a king come all sorts of allegiances, loyalties and priorities that may very well take us, His people, from Him. God must have been asking Himself, “If they trust me and the covenant I have made with them, why do they need a king?”

Nevertheless, God provided a king in Saul. Now it was time for a new king, a king who would obey God. The prophet Samuel was told by God to go to Bethlehem and anoint a new king (Chapter 16, verses 1-13). Samuel did as instructed, going to Bethlehem and talking with the family of Jesse of the tribe of Benjamin. They brought before him, one by one, the sons of Jesse who were thought to be worthy of kingship.

When none of these were found suitable, Samuel asked about David, the youngest and least of the sons. With hesitation, David was brought forth. Samuel anointed him to be the next king. Do you think David or his father, or even Samuel, was wondering what God had in mind? Could David have been wondering, “How could He choose me, what is His purpose for me?”

I am constantly wondering about God’s purpose for us – for me. This question has been before me, as I gaze on my grandchildren. What “will” they do with their lives – lives that are just beginning? What “will” I do with my life – a life that is more than half gone?

On one occasion, when I was having dinner with my family, my grandson, Jacob, of whom I’m just a little proud, was sitting in his high chair. Before a plate could be passed, he said, “Pray Pa.” While saying grace, I also said quietly to myself and to God, “This little child is your child; these parents are your children; and I am yours.” At that moment, after wiping the tear from my eye, God’s purpose was quite clear – help my children stay on a faith journey; keep God’s grace ever present in our midst.

I challenge all of us to look for those significant moments in our lives when God is speaking, and attempt to discern His purpose.

— Ed Federico

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist