“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” Isaiah 6:8 NIV
One of the things I have learned about volunteerism is the people that frequently show up are not those who are qualified but those with heart. Drawing from my experiences working with the homeless and addicted at L Street Mission, the people who show up are n0t professionals but those responding to Christ’s call. Their only qualification is their obedience.
In this scripture, the prophet Isaiah sees the Lord seated on the throne. Around him are the angels of heaven singing praises, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” (v.3) The first thing that happens is Isaiah acknowledges his sin; the angel then touches his lips with a coal from the altar, taking away his guilt and sin. Cleansed, God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah exercising free will could have said no, but instead responded to the commission, “Send me!”
When we accept Christ, like Isaiah, our sin is taken away, and we are cleansed. Also, like Isaiah, God asks the same question, “Whom shall I send?” The question may come at any time, be repeated, and be for something we feel we are not remotely qualified to do. However, I can assure you that God will give you all the qualifications and authority needed to succeed in your obedience.
Father, we thank you for the salvation found in Jesus Christ. Grant us the courage to move into strange and uncomfortable places. Lead us by the Holy Spirit in the ways you would have us go. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
