There was a time in my life when I was certain I would never work for a church. I was happy with my secular job and volunteering. Then God arranged the circumstances in such a way that it was apparent working in ministry was my next step. (How many Singles Ministry Director/Real Estate Project Manager positions can there be in the world?) And I have loved it. I have loved the people and the opportunity to have a front row seat to life change. I was positive that working in ministry would be my vocation forever more. But God has presented me with the next step and I have been called, unmistakably, to the secular workplace again.
When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”
His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” John 2
That “more than you can ask or imagine” is often completely unexpected. And totally wonderful. More than a few years ago, I knew I was not to date while my kids were in high school. During that time, our family became even stronger, their faith became more their own, and God blessed us in more ways than I can describe.
I have found that when I follow Him into circumstances only He could create, the blessings are abundant and profound, and I have more opportunity to testify to His faithfulness and His goodness. It’s always humbling (as I have frequently followed Him while questioning His navigation skills) and yet completely rewarding and even fun as I see wherever He leads is someplace He’s already prepared for me and prepared me for.
I used to think I could do a reasonable job of predicting the next steps for my life. How each move in my career would lead to the next. That I could use my “vast experience” to forecast my future.
But He makes the best wine.
“They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”
At this point I have no idea what the next 10 years, or five years, or even what next year will look like or where it will lead. I’m certain of only one thing- I want to go where He’s leading me. And that’s enough.
“Do whatever He tells you.”