Am I being called?

Recognizing the Call

As in the past, God is calling people today. Throughout history, many have been called. They have lived exemplary lives and have extended the mission of Jesus Christ around the world. There are many heroic stories in every age. Yet, today it is harder then in the past to discover God's call. There are so many valuable ways that you can choose to live your life. There are so many distractions that make it hard to hear God's voice. Discerning a vocation is a challenge, no doubt about it. It can be especially tough today because others, even parents and friends, may not be encouraging or supportive. In the world of the Third Millennium, many are hungry to find greater meaning in life, eager to discover some purpose for their life. But God is calling you.

Five Moments of Discernment

1. When discerning a vocation there is always a confusion of options. Many things interest us.
   Suggestion: root out any interests that are "bad" or not of God, then with the remaining good choices, seek out your dominant interest and pursue it.
2. The decision making process is a complicated matter. There are many "layers" of decisions that must be looked at. At the same time there are clues, "signs" that are present to us.
   Suggestion: follow the leads that are present.
3. There is very often uncertainty in the discernment process. At any one point in time we only see partial glimpses, not the whole picture, therefore uncertainty exists.
   Suggestion: trust what is deepest in your heart.
4. In discernment your decision will always meet a certain amount of inner resistance. Resistance is a good sign. There is always risk when a person makes significant decisions in his life. A person must have sufficient love in his heart to take a significant risk.
   Suggestion: reflect on what is the source of love in your heart, where it is leading you, and how deeply it is present.
5. When discerning your vocation, the road ahead will always remain a bit foggy. You probably will not know with absolute certainty what lies ahead. The future will always remain a bit hidden. Mystery and the unknown are part of everyone's future.
   Suggestion: take one step at a time. don't try to "figure out" in exact detail your entire future.