“I’m here; send me”

Life has a funny way of leading us down unexpected paths, challenging our plans, and urging us to step out of our comfort zones. In my own journey, I discovered the transformative power of answering God’s call, even when it seemed contrary to my own desires and plans.

In the summer of 2021, while working part-time at Peoria First United Methodist Church, I stumbled upon a job posting for a Worship Experience Specialist at Church of the Resurrection. Intrigued by the description, I realized that this role aligned with my skills and passions–I had already been serving in similar capacities as a volunteer. Without much thought, I took a leap of faith and applied, not knowing where this would lead.

Leaving behind a 27-year teaching career to pursue this new opportunity was not an easy decision. There were plenty of moments filled with doubts and I had so many questions for God about all of it. Was God truly calling me to leave everything familiar–my family, my friends, my church, my job? Everything felt uncertain, but something in me kept pointing me towards this call.

Answering God’s call is rarely easy, and it often stretches us beyond our comfort zones. Throughout this whirlwind journey, there were moments of excitement, fear, and even sadness. In the midst of it all, I discovered a profound peace that assured me I was on the right path. Stepping out in faith allowed me to experience personal growth and a deepening of my relationship with God.

Now, nearly two years later, I look back and am amazed and humbled by God’s faithfulness. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I had been praying for new opportunities to use my writing and editing skills. Little did I know that God had been preparing a path for me to fulfill that desire in the context of a new role at Resurrection.

I have witnessed first-hand that God’s faithfulness knows no bounds. A new opportunity emerged within the church, aligning perfectly with my passion for writing and editing. It was a realization that God had been answering my prayers all along, leading me to a place where I can make a difference one word at a time. I am able to utilize my skills to contribute to the church’s purpose of building a Christian community where non-religious and nominally religious people are becoming deeply committed Christians.

Through the twists and turns of this journey, I have come to understand that answering God’s call is not just about fulfilling a specific role or task. If I had not stepped out in faith and been willing to be uncomfortable, I would not be where I am today, living out my passions and serving in a place I love. It is a reminder that when we answer God’s call, we become a part of something bigger than ourselves, and we have the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of others.

Answering God’s call is a journey of trust, surrender, and divine timing. It requires us to let go of our own plans and lean on God’s guidance. While it may not always be easy or comfortable, the rewards are immeasurable. As I reflect on my decision to go where God called me, I am filled with gratitude for the growth, purpose, and fulfillment it has brought into my life. May we all be attentive to God’s call and when He speaks to our hearts and says, “Whom should I send, and who will go for us?”–may we all have the courage to respond by saying, “I’m here; send me.”