The biggest decision of my life so far has been the moment I decided to move away from everything I had ever known, to a different state where I knew only a few people and make, what I thought at the time, was a complete career change. At first, my questions were many, but the biggest was, why was God calling me to something SO new? I felt called at a young age to be a teacher and had steadfastly followed that call and now God is saying, “Do THIS instead? Go to Pine Brook Camp, take the job of Guest Services Director and I will bless you!” I heard it as clear as day and I obeyed. It was 8 years ago that I came to Pine Brook Camp and I was confident that it was exactly what God wanted me to do and that I was following Him!
I came into this journey knowing that it was what God wanted, but for a long time, I simply saw it as “just another job” that I had accepted and something that I was going to give my all to and do my best at. It was very different from teaching middle school, right? I would have to learn a whole new skill set and change my mindset; I wasn’t a “teacher” any more. I had decided to follow Jesus and try something new, after all?! Now, I can say with complete confidence; this perspective has shifted!
As I’ve grown into this assignment, I have had the opportunity to learn about myself, about others and about the true character of God. I’ve also come to see my “work” as an extension of that main calling from many years ago! I’ve actually been able to look back and see the threads or expressions of that same calling in every job I’ve had and every task I’ve accomplished through the years; especially in this ministry of guest services. God has truly used every “good and perfect gift” (James 1:17) for His glory and for my benefit. He wasn’t wavering on the calling for my life; He was just using it in a different way.
Much like teaching, guest services is about building a relationship, communicating expectations and offering the tools needed to enhance a person’s well-being. It is making sure that guests come to a place where they can accomplish their ministry goals in a setting that is relaxing and provides a renewing and refreshing, physically, mentally and spiritually. Sounds much like the goals for a classroom doesn’t it? God is so good!
I want to encourage you today and tell you that no matter what God has asked you to do, whether it is completely different from what you imagined or something smaller within the context of where you already are; He has a plan, He will use you and all you have to do is say “YES!”
In the words of one of my favorite authors, “Jobs will come and go. Your calling won’t. Don’t let fear of failure keep you from what God wants you to do.” (Annie F. Downs, “100 Days to Brave”)