"Leave:
The call of Jesus, whether subtle and gradual or sudden and dramatic, is life-changing.
It resonates deep inside and stretches us toward new possibilities of becoming. But it can also be very disruptive, as we reckon with what we are being called to leave behind. What places, roles, habits, or self-understandings does the call of Jesus now ask you to leave behind?
Br. Keith Nelson, SSJE "
This is a recent offering from the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE), an Episcopal (Anglican) monastic community. One of their disciplines is to share devotions with people around the world in spiritual leadership.
Daily we are challenged by choices—often to accept the challenge of new directions. If we are to accept new challenges, we will be required to leave something behind. The choices can be difficult to make.
I am often asked, “How did you make the choice to leave a career in local government administration to accept a vocation in ordained ministry in the Anglican church?”
My answer is longer than this space provides! Suffice it to say: It was a “call”. Did it require “leaving behind?” Certainly. Were there “unknowns?” Certainly. Was it “simple?” No.
But it was worth every challenge!
Jesus calls us into places, roles, or self-understandings I could never have imagined. Today, we understand most people will change careers at least three times!
This weekend, Canadians will gather in thanksgiving for the many blessings received. "Family" may gather to share stories of ancestors, giving thanks for the memories received over the generations. There may be stories of ‘leaving’; stories of dramatic changes in lives of those who have entered into family journeys—into new challenges and new life.
Similarly, as we journey in a time of giving thanks in our parish life, we join with those who have accepted the call of a journey with Christ—the ordained and the lay persons who fulfill the many obligations needed for a parish church to achieve greatness—those from the past, as well as those who serve the parish today.
I give thanks for the years serving Christ, both lay and ordained. I give thanks for events which have challenged and stretched me in many ways—each life giving.
May you, and those with whom you share in giving thanks this week, rejoice in Christ’s blessings in your life.
Blessings,
Venerable Brian Evans+
