“I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.”  - Ephesians 4:1-6 (NRSV)
 

When I first came to the United Methodist Foundation for the Memphis and Tennessee Annual Conferences, it was explained to me on more than one occasion that there is a reason there are three stars on the Tennessee state flag.

“You see,” I was told, “there are really three separate regions that comprise the state.” And, “there are big differences between middle Tennessee and the western part of the state (including the Purchase area of Kentucky!)” I have found that to be true, but I have also discovered a far greater truth in my ministry here. There are some differences but the points of commonality are far more significant.

And what is most significant of all is that what is held in common far eclipses any differences. The letter to the Ephesians holds true even for the Memphis and Tennessee Annual Conferences. God has a mission that binds us all together with far more powerful bonds than any differences that might keep us apart.

What I find most comforting when I think about the missio Dei is that the Lord who I met so many years ago way up there in northeastern Ohio is the same one who called me here. And, the Lord didn’t just send me, but invited me to join his work in this place. It seems to me, that when we’re following Jesus, it doesn’t really matter where we’re from; instead, what counts is where he is calling us to go.

Where is Jesus calling you to go in this Lenten season and in the days and months to come? Wherever it is, have no fear, he will be there waiting, inviting you to join in his joyful service.
 

Dear Lord, today remind me that you never call me anywhere that you yourself have not already entered. Thank you for your faithfulness. Grant me the courage to follow you into those places that I might not always choose, but will always help others and help me find your joy and peace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

*****

The Rev. Dr. Phil Jamieson
President of the United Methodist Foundation for the Memphis and Tennessee Conferences