Central Calling(s)

In Acts 6, the early church is growing so rapidly and the Apostles are being pulled in so many different directions ministering to over 10,000 people at this point that a mini-crisis occurs that causes the disciples to re-evaluate their central calling(s) in their life.  As the Body of Christ grew some widow’s fell through the cracks administratively.  They were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food, and they complained to the leadership that they were being overlooked. 

“So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:2-4).” 

Please notice what the Twelve did here:

First, they let go of what was not central to their calling:  They understood that administering the food ministry was not their central calling; that doesn’t mean it’s not important, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be ran well. But it does mean it wasn’t their central calling, and for the overall health of the ministry it was best if they let it go.

Second, they straighten out what was their central calling.  This needs to happen from time to time.  We need to be reminded of what our central calling is. Thankfully, this situation gave the Apostles an opportunity to step back and think about their central calling and pursue that. 

What about you?  Do you know your central calling(s)?  Often times our lives are shaped so that we have more than one central calling.  How do I even go about finding out my central calling(s)?  Here’s how: Ask yourself, “Which things in my life cannot be delegated to another?”

What might be some central callings in your life?

i.      Your devotional life is one.  Your personal relationship with Jesus Christ cannot be delegated. 

ii.      Your marriage-being a spouse to your partner.

iii.      Your children-Being a parent cannot be delegated.

iv.      Your work-career, job….

We need to lean into where God has called us for this season of life.  Identify your central callings in life, and re-prioritize your time and your energies around these things…which is exactly what the Apostles did.