Called. Humbled. Responsible.

"and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. for those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. and those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified." romans 8:28-30

i recently attended A&O (assessment & orientation) with world harvest in philadelphia. despite the long days and chilling temperatures, it proved to be a great week. i am happy to report that i've officially been approved to return to south sudan for a 2-year term beginning next fall! i'm excited to return to a team i love and be a part of what God is doing among the sudanese.
the Lord really used my week in philly to confirm his call on my life and renew an excitement in me to walk in obedience to that call. what a blessing to spend time with the WHM staff and hear their personal stories and testimonies of God's faithfulness in their lives. i am so thankful for all the time, prayer, and encouragement they poured into us. at the end of the week, world harvest invited a pastor to give a short sermon for the new appointees. the topic...humility. how appropriate! the Lord seems to always know when i need a good reminder of my self-righteousness tendencies. what a great message for a group of newly appointed missionaries. lest we forget, God has called us to salvation. while we were still sinners, God sent his Son to satisfy the wrath we deserve so we may be called his sons. we offer nothing, yet God gives us everything. how can this not compel us to humility? and yet, i seem to need constant reminders.
david platt's message this morning was from romans 9. a good one to download. he read verses of God choosing us, adopting us as sons. a good reminder that it is not about us, what we bring to the table. it's all about God, the one who calls. in his unfathomable mercy, God called us to be his people. and with this great privilege comes great responsibility. so many times, i fail. Lord, help me live a life worthy of the calling.