Dec. 14- Epiphany

Epiphany: an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure.  


Not to sound too mystical or ethereal on this cold Tuesday morning, but I do believe I had an epiphany this morning between snooze buttons two and three.


For the past several months I have had an unsettled feeling that I needed to be doing more for the Lord.  I have had several conversations with my father about this and never found a satisfactory answer to my disquietude.  Is it time for a career change?  Should I be teaching a Sunday school class?  Leading a lay ministry of some sort?  This morning I had an answer to that month's long question.  There was not finger writing on the wall or a booming voice that shook the windows, but the still small voice of the Lord spoke to me.  "David, you are exactly where I want you to be- Krisit's husband. Seth's stepfather and Rountree's principal."  There was not a call to African missions.  No admonition to sell our house, give the proceeds to the church and live in a commune.  Simply a reminder I am exactly where God would have me to be.


As I was pondering that seemingly obvious message from God, I began to ask Him, "But how can I further your kingdom in those roles?"


God used Chip Ingram to answer that question.  Between snooze buttons three and four, one line from a Chip Ingram sermon blared out from the radio before I could get it shut off- "We are to love others."  I don't know what Chip was preaching about, or how that line tied into the rest of his message, but it was the clear, succinct message I needed from God.  I can further God's kingdom wherever He chooses to place me by loving others.


I don't have to have a position at Ridgecrest or an official ministry or hours of volunteer work with the homeless.  God has called His children to be people lovers.  I am to love the lovable and the not-so-lovables and the loveless.  I am called to love others in such a tangible, consistent way that they will be drawn to the Christ in me.  My life is to be such a reflection of God's love for us, that those who are empty and hurting will allow Christ to fill that void.  I need to show that love to Kristi, Seth, students, parents, teachers, staff and colleagues.


Love is what God has called me to do and to be.  Period.  At this season in my life, I am who and where God wants me to be.  (I realize that I should strive to grow daily in my walk with Him in order to more perfectly reflect His love.)  And until He makes any change of plans clear, I will start loving more and searching less.