Would it surprise you to learn that the word church in The New testament comes from the two Greek words ek meaning out of, from, or away from and kä-le’-ō  meaning to call, call aloud, or utter in a loud voice? From those two words we get the word ek-klā-sē’-ä, which some of you may be more familiar with. Sometimes, though, I think it’s a good idea to go back to the original meaning of words. Because over the years (and centuries), we can lose the impact and the urgency of their original meaning. Nowadays, when we use the word church, we often think of a physical building. That, I think, is a shame. I would much rather think of the church as an assembly of people who have been called out.

The reason I say this is because so many people come to church and feel that their responsibility is simply to attend. Don’t get me wrong, we want our churches to grow, and it’s always good to have a full house. However, what’s more important than simply being in a seat is seeking out God’s purpose for calling you out. Is it simply to fill a seat? Is it simply to tithe? Or is there some greater purpose in your being called out? When Christ called the apostles, he had a plan for them. He had work for them to do. Now, to be sure, not everyone who is called out is called to be an apostle. But that’s the beauty of God’s body and His divine purpose: we all have different gifts. And these gifts were put in us to edify the body of Christ.

So where should you start? Start by seeking God and taking a self-inventory. We all have talents and gifts that can be put to use. However, in that process of self-evaluation, we also need to be honest with ourselves and not confuse desire with purpose. For instance, I would love to be a great gospel singer, but God didn’t give me the ability to sing very well. Fortunately for the body of Christ, God did give me a sound mind, so I contain most of my singing to the shower or when I’m alone in my car.

Okay, so you’ve sought out God and taken your self-inventory. What’s next? Well, I would suggest that you go to your pastor and find out his or her vision for the church. Come with a servant’s heart and a desire to please God. Find out how you can help further that vision. I can guarantee you that your pastor, who was also called out, has already taken an inventory of what’s needed in the church. Your first step was acknowledging God’s call. Now, walk in it.

Be well and be blessed.