Good morning. Who is worthy to answer the call of the Lord? Who is good enough, great enough, talented enough, respected enough to stand for the Lord and speak? Or to sing? Or to serve in any number of other essential ways?
We could all come up with a great many reasons why we should not be on that list. We all have our problems and shortcomings, and to consider ourselves worthy…well that would be quite a stretch, wouldn’t it?
But then we should consider those whom the Lord does call. Are they noteworthy for their talents, or their powers, or their history of remarkable service? Sometimes perhaps, but not usually. No, usually God tends to call people who are remarkable for being just the opposite. God calls people of whom the most remarkable thing about them is their willingness to answer, “yes Lord”.
There was a time long ago when the Lord God needed someone to speak for Him. He needed a prophet who would be courageous as well as capable. Did God search the land for a person renowned for their abilities? No, He called on Jeremiah. When Jeremiah heard the call of the Lord, this was his response: “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am but a child.” Jeremiah 1:6 That last part, “I am but a child” would seem like a pretty good excuse, a reasonable answer in saying “thanks God, but no”.
God answered Jeremiah: But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
“Do not fear, for I am with you.” This has been said by God many times throughout scripture.
For God, there doesn’t seem to be such a thing as too old or too young. You are either willing or you are not, and He will make it work when you are willing.
March 26th our NLCC congregation is going to be especially blessed. Our youth are taking over the responsibilities for the service. They will preach, sing, greet, provide meditations and prayers, everything. God called, and they said, “YES LORD!”
I can hardly wait!
Vern