Luther and Vocation

Last Sunday, Lutherans around the world celebrated Reformation Sunday. My sermon focused on Luther's understanding of "vocation" which he refers to as Gottendienst or "godly service." Gottendienst is the German word for "worship." Thus Luther is telling his audience that what one does in this world is more than a holy calling or a vocation. It is an act of worship. The importance of everyone having a sense of vocation or holy calling cannot be understated. In fact, Jurgen Moltmann asserts that "next to Word and Sacrament, the recognition of the divine vocation of every Christian in his or her worldly occupation is the third great insight of the Lutheran Reformation."

What does Gottendienst mean for us? Well, one way I look at it is that God honors whatever work we do, be it great or small. Every conversation, every act of kindness counts. God blesses us whether we mop the floors or construct them. God blesses us whether we preach a sermon or take food to an AIDS patient. God blesses our fight for LGBT equality at a national rally as well as a casual conversation with a co-worker.

Each of us has a gift. Each of us is called to serve. Each of us has a vocation or, perhaps, it is better to say vocations since all of us have multiple callings to our families, our work places, our community and our world. My point is that I hope we will celebrate wherever God has placed us right this very moment. May we use our gifts in whatever ways we can and keep striving to introduce the world to the Jesus we know: The Jesus who loves us, redeems, and sets us free from the chains of hatred, prejudice and injustice.