Children’s Sermon

John 1: 43-51

The Calling

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John 1: 43-51

The Calling

By Dr. Dan Wuori

Have you ever thought about what you might like to do when you grow up? Yes? Tell me about it. What kind of job would you like to have? (Solicit children’s answers.)

Thinking about jobs is a lot of fun, isn’t it? There are so many different ones to choose from – and so many really important jobs. When I was younger I wanted to be a whole list of things – a scientist, a movie star, a doctor. I think I might have had a different idea every week!

Eventually you’re going to find something that is just perfect. There are lots of jobs you could do – but someday you’re going to find something you think you should do – almost like you need to do it.

When people find their perfect jobs – something they decide they were meant to do – sometimes they call it something other than just “a job.” They call it “a calling.” Almost as though God had called them to say, this is the thing for you.

Over the past couple weeks we’ve read several stories about John the Baptist. In each of those stories he’s told the people that he isn’t the Son of God, but that someone much greater is coming.

In today’s reading John has started to tell his followers that this person, Jesus, has arrived. And now Jesus is helping them to find their calling. He tells them “follow me” and helps them to understand that their calling – their special job in life – is to help him spread his teachings.

And whether you choose to be a minister or a movie star or a doctor – you can share in this special calling too – by leading a good Christian life, by helping others and following Jesus’ teachings. It’s a calling to us all.
Can we pray?

Dear God,

You have called us to be your people. Help us to do your will during the week ahead.

Amen

Copyright 2009, Dr. Dan Wuori. Used by permission.