Purposeful

Purpose. Such a loaded word. My women's life group was discussing purpose last week after discussing Matthew 3, when Jesus began his purpose, his ministry after being baptized by John the Baptist.

Which begs the question....what is my purpose?

Is it to go on a certain number or type of mission trips?

To lead a certain person or number of people to Christ?

To donate a certain amount of money to my church and Christian charities?

To serve in a specific number of ministries at my church?

The list could be endless.

And exhausting...in this mindset, my purpose hinges on my accomplishments, completing a checklist, doing so much on largely my own effort. I've heard some folks lately encouraging Christians to have a 'mission statement' - to me, that sounds too much like this list. Too much like an annual performance appraisal at work.

So, I don't have a mission; I have a purpose.

My purpose is to be a faithful and obedient servant of God in bringing heaven to earth now.

In thinking and praying about my purpose this week, I've realized that a purpose is much more difficult, challenging, and (ultimately) rewarding than having a checklist-like mission statement.

Is it easy to be faithful and obedient when God is calling you to do things or live in abundant generosity that is totally against your normal sense and logic? Is it natural to remain faithful in the midst of your confusion and difficult times? Is it simple to be God's instrument to begin the renewal and redemption of our broken yet wonderful world?

For me, the answer is no. My prideful heart wants everything to be about me...I really need to learn humility. But I am encouraged! With practice and a good serving of prayer, my character is changing, growing, transforming into the person I was really meant to become. N.T. Wright describes character development as the process of making all of our decisions natural, automatic, and right; of keeping a firm grip on our thoughts. I've learned (and am still in process) to arm myself with Scripture, with prayer, to be prepared for the challenges and adventures of life.

Being aware of my purpose reminds me also of my need for a Savior, my sinful nature, my covetousness and pride. My purpose daily drives me to the Cross to ask for grace upon grace.

I found a great verse this weekend to go along with my purpose:

"Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, who do his just commands, seek righteousness, seek humility...." (Zeph 2:3)

I need humility to live according to my purpose. Humility to listen, to be obedient, to live faithfully, to give my life away. Life isn't over until our purpose is completed. Strangely, the more I live according to purpose, the more I do things on the checklist I made earlier, but things are accomplished with joy and peace, not fear of retaliation. It took Jesus 3 years of ministry to complete his purpose; however, I suspect it will take much longer than 3 three years to see it to completion. But I'm ready and excited for this adventure!