Each of us is precious and unique. God created us special for a purpose—something no one else can ever do. We each feel that kernel of expectation deep within us. And so many of us are afraid to step out and let that dream blossom and grow.
I learned about stepping out of my own comfort zone by watching our military son. He faced many obstacles—both before and after he enlisted—while he was following his calling.
First, he had to overcome my objections. Yes, I was proud to have a son who wanted to serve his country. But I also had the perspective of an adult. I knew the price that desire might exact from him.
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Second, he had to push past the expectations of others. All his friends were going on to college. They were on the path for success. He chose to follow his heart and swim upstream from the crowd.
Third, he had to stay the course through boot camp and the early months of his enlistment. I’m his mother, and I watched some of the things—physical and mental—that he had to overcome. But I only know the surface difficulties. His commitment, like those of others in the military, ran so much further than just skin deep.
Fourth, he had to face his fears and conquer them. I listened to him speak to a classroom full of high school students after his first deployment, and I’ll never forget what he had to say: “If anyone tells you they’re not afraid in combat, they’re lying to you.”
Finally, he had to push through the length of his commitment. There were times when his obligation of service stretched before him like an eternity. It was during those seasons that he dug in and remained true to what he’d been called to do.
We face the same sort of obstacles when God calls us, even if we’re not in military service. But as difficult as it is to follow our calling, it’s also freeing. When we’re serving God in the place He’s prepared, we have a joy and a peace that truly goes beyond any earthly understanding.
Watching my son has given me the courage to stay the course and let God’s calling blossom as I follow the path He designed me to walk.
