In the world of real estate, the phrase “location, location, location” is familiar. Such an expression alludes to the fact that the location of a home or business is the most important factor to consider. The location of a home is like soil. If it is fertile, then whatever is planted there has a chance to prosper. However, if it is infertile, even planting the seeds of the most magnificent flowers will be a thwarted process. A property’s value relies upon its locality just as the seeds planted rely upon the surrounding soil for nourishment. Well, location is to real estate what vocation ought to be to us.
The word “vocation” comes from the Latin word “vocare,” meaning “to call.” Regrettably, nowadays, we seldom hear people refer to their job as being a part of their calling. Yet, a person’s occupation typically takes up the bulk of their time. Accordingly, if we cannot effectuate a calling in our work , we are selling ourselves short. Despite what many people say, everyone has a religion . . . it is only a matter of which one it is. In the same way, everyone has to pursue a purpose . . . it is only a matter of which one it will be.
“WHAT WE THINK WE WILL FIND FULFILLMENT IN DOES NOT ALWAYS AMOUNT TO WHAT WILL ACTUALLY BRING US FULFILLMENT.”
If a certain type of flower is desired, but the soil is not suitable for its growth, no amount of effort or willpower will suffice. Thankfully, we all have the soil necessary for the growth of some type of flower, plant, or crop. The soil represents both the calling and the necessary elements to effectuate that calling. The resulting flower, plant, or crop represents fulfillment. Therefore, what we may think we will find fulfillment in does not always amount to what will actually bring us fulfillment.
One myth that is commonly communicated is that we can all be anything we want when we grow up. That is not true; but, we should not want it to be either. If everyone had the same characteristics, interests, and personalities, the world as we know it simply would not function; it would collapse under its own weight. Thankfully, we each have unique gifts from above (James 1:17). Just like the body, they are not all the same, but they are all essential (Romans 12:4-8).
None of this is to say that a particular vocation is the essence of our worth. Our worth is inherent, being made in the image of God. Nevertheless, vocation is still a significant part of the Christian life, and a teaching that has been surrounded by much controversy in history. That is what will be explored in Part 2 of this series, but there is still plenty to chew on for now. Therefore, before next week, I would encourage you to think about how you can best glorify God with the gifts that he has provided to you. It is never too late to consider this and to actualize the conclusions that you draw. Even so, you can love God and love your neighbor no matter where you are in life, so let us press on to that end (Mark 12:30-31).
