I felt a call into ministry for ten years before accepting my call five years ago. I first felt my call into ministry in middle school and wrestled with it all throughout college and beginning my career as a teacher. Questions and fears swept through my mind during those ten years. How would I pay for seminary? How could I possibly be called by God? What about my dreams of becoming an elementary principal? Pretty consistently, I told God, “There is no way I am going to do that!” God was pretty consistent back at me!

Throughout my discernment and journey towards ordained ministry, I have always felt connected to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary was called by God to give birth to the Messiah, the one who will save us all. Without knowing if Joseph would stay or go, Mary boldly proclaimed, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” What is most remarkable about this is that Mary joyfully gives thanks to God for all that God has done for her, even if she’s going into unknown territory. She’s unmarried and pregnant, something that could leave her ostracized.

Mary’s bold proclamation in the midst of uncertainty and fear is an example for us as we go
through unknown territory. Do you feel God calling you into something unknown? Perhaps you
feel called to a new job, making friends with someone at school, or trying something new. Don’t
be afraid, for you have found favor with God! As we go into this new year, my hope is that 2021 can be a fresh start for all of us and a place of healing. Whatever God is calling us to, may we boldly proclaim, “Here am I!”

Peace, Pastor Kristina