God taps us on the shoulder and shakes us awake

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has annointed me to bring the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." Luke 4:18-19

For Moses, it was an ordinary day as he herded the grazing sheep. Then God called?from a burning bush?and his life changed direction.

Matthew was at his booth, collecting taxes. He didn't care much for his job, but he lived comfortably (more than most), and he was dedicated, (though not popular). Then Jesus walked by, invited him to leave his booth and join him. Matthew's life was never the same.

Saul (later called Paul) was busy ridding society of radical Christians who were upsetting religious and political norms. It was just another day of "justified persecution" on the road to Damascus when he was struck blind and "saw" his life's mission dramatically turned around. Christ's mission became his mission.

Few have had these extrodinary encounters where God calls from a bush, a booth, or from the darkness; but God calls us just the same. God taps us on the shoulder, enters our conscience, or shakes us awake to be aware of and to serve people in need. Like Moses, Matthew and Paul, responding to God's call can radically change our lives. Our life's work becomes a culmination of simple acts of serving others, making a difference in the life of even one person, relieving one burden at a time. So, annoint us God, tap us on the shoulder, "dope slap" us if you have to; but call us, and we will follow, we will serve.

Consider the first verse lyrics of this hymn written by Daniel Charles Damon:

"I have called you by your name, you are mine; I have gifted you and ask you now to shine. I will not abandon you, all my promises are true. You are gifted, called and chosen; you are mine"

Spark change in our lives, God and we will change others by sharing Christ's peace.