I was given the book, Call 2 Ministry, by Dana Matheson. I’ve just begun the read. The author states in the Introduction, “If after reading this material you realize that God is not leading you into vocational ministry, then I pray He will place an abiding peace in your life to help you understand your (in italics) personal life ministry. However, if the Lord is leading you to serve Him voacationally, then this material can give you confidence to prepare for the next step.”
Question….
….Is not every Christian called to a Christian vocation regardless of his/her life context? I’ve heard persons use these words from time to time when talking about one’s calling and Christian vocation. What is your understanding of the difference between these two words?
Here are the dictionary definitions:
Vocation:
1. a particular occupation, business, or profession; calling.
2. a strong impulse or inclination to follow a particular acticity or career.
3. a divind call to God’s service or to the Christian life.
4. a function or station in life to which one is called by God: the religious vocatin; the vocation of marriage.
Avocation:
1. something a person does in addition to a principle occupation, es. for pleasure; hobby: Our doctor’s avocation is painting.
2. a person’s regular occupation, calling, or vocation.
3. Archaic, diversion or distraction.
What are your thoughts?
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