Following our Calling
Rev. Erik Swanson
February 9, 2025
We need to return to foundational spiritual principles and emphasize the importance of responding to God’s call. Throughout scripture and history, individuals have been called by God—Moses leading the Israelites, prophets speaking truth to power, and Jesus calling his disciples. Some have followed while others have not. The message in Luke chapter 5 challenges us to reflect on our own calling in today’s world and how we respond.
The Tension Between Action and Contemplation
The story of Jesus calling Peter, James and John highlights the tension between action and contemplation. In a society focused on doing, it is easy to act without grounding ourselves in God’s guidance. Activism and outreach, such as providing sanctuary and rapid response training, are crucial. However, the inward journey—seeking rest, reconnecting with God, and discerning His calling—must come first. This spiritual foundation fuels meaningful and sustainable action.
Being Called to a New Way of Life
It needs to be noted that Jesus initiated the call to His disciples. He directed them to an abundant catch of fish before calling them into a new way of life. This transformation required leaving behind what was familiar. We must push beyond a romanticized view of discipleship and commit to self-examination. In chaotic times, tending to our inner lives is essential. Without inner work, societal injustices persist. The sermon argues that oppression—whether against LGBTQ individuals, women, or marginalized communities—continues because people have not done the deep work of confronting their biases and moving toward justice.
We should see public issues as opportunities for personal and collective growth. Each act of injustice reflects something unresolved within society and ourselves. The challenge is to ask: Where do we still harbor beliefs that enable oppression? Are we willing to face the discomfort of acknowledging our complicity? Healing within leads to cultural transformation.
Recognizing What Hinders Us
Another crucial aspect of discipleship is recognizing what hinders our response to God’s call. The disciples left everything behind, a radical act of faith. Today, we are nudged by the Spirit, but do we listen? Are we truly willing to change, to love more deeply, to confront our prejudices? The work of discipleship is not just external but internal—breaking down barriers within ourselves that prevent full participation in God’s vision.
The Deeper Question
This leads to a deeper question: Who is the God we follow? Many invoke God’s name to justify actions, from restricting women’s rights to enshrining the Ten Commandments in schools. We must discern whether we are following a cultural god or the God revealed through Jesus—the one who calls us into love, service, and unity.
Listening and Responding to our Call
Ultimately God’s calling is not limited to historical figures but extends to each of us today. It may be a call to activism, self-care, or inner healing. Whatever the call, we are invited to listen and respond with courage. The Bible teaches that following Christ leads to abundance—not material wealth, but a life rich in Spirit, hope, and purpose. In these times, the world needs people who will do the work, follow God, and bring forth life. Amen.