Thoughts approaching Change

It's hard to believe that my time in DC as an intern is almost over. My time as an Undergrad is also coming to an end, and with it comes mixed feelings. I've learned so much over the past 4 years, yet there is still so much to learn. Lately I've been searching for a job because I don't want to go straight into Grad school. Many people say "Why? You should stay in school as long as possible!" when I tell them that, but there are two reasons.

1) I want to work in the world before I go back to writing papers no one reads.

2) I don't know what Grad program I want to join, why? Because outside of making a positive impact in the community that creates both a short-term impact and a long-term change, I'm not really sure what I want to do - and since the above requirement is more than kinda vague, I am struggling to figure out where I want to work, where I fit, and what difference I make.

I think that all people go through this at some point - usually as teens it seems - so I may just be dealing with it a little later than everyone else. However as I have been reflecting on where I fit, I've been reminded of something I was told as a high school student.

"Everyone has an important part to play. Not everyone goes and becomes President or flies off to the farthest corner of the Earth to share the Gospel. Some people are called to stay here to disciple and serve, and that service doesn't always take the shape that you would think."

While being President or a Missionary sounds amazing, not everyone is called to do that. Someone has to stay here and love on kids in the nursery so that their parents can go to work and run the banks, stores, restaurants, and even the public transportation for those who don't have a car (like me at the moment!). While it may not be what people would call their "calling", each job serves an important purpose and without it society would not run properly. I feel that this is true for the Body of Christ, not every calling is as glamorous as others but each is as important as the rest. Not everyone can be the Preacher or the Missionary in a far off land, because no matter how appealing (or unappealing) those positions may seem, there are other needs to be met. Now I did not say that every member of the Body is not a minister. As followers of Christ we all recieved the same commission! Though the shape that the commission takes in our life will be unique to the plan that God has for our life in fulfilling His purpose and will. Each person is equipped with unique gifts and talents to fulfill their purpose.

While thinking on this, I still don't know how or where I fit in, but it does give me a greater appreciation for those around me and remind me that no matter where I find myself working, I am making a difference alongside those around me.

Another important lesson from this for me though, is that I cannot make the difference alone. We work TOGETHER as the body. Behind every minister is God, a family, staff, and friends who support them and help them walk down their path. Behind every successful CEO is an efficient staff who enable the CEO to do his job. We were not made to be alone and that goes for more than just marriage.

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

Just some stuff that I've been thinking about as I apply for (many) jobs and face the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

I thought this seemed appropriate... though it brings up the issue of communication when working together, but that's a topic for another day.