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Warning! “Here am I.”
Rod ShimabukuroIsaiah 6:8 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!” NIV
Isaiah’s vision is undoubtedly one of the most recited passages when preachers talk about the encountering God and His holiness, or the “Here am I” response to God’s calling. God commission’s Isaiah into a calling not many of us modern day preachers would accept.
The message Isaiah would bring, would challenge people to the point of church decline in attendance. There’s no exaggeration of hands being raised to receive Christ in this passage. Quite the opposite actually! People would be hardened, their ears dulled and eyes blinded to God’s work.
I’m seeing and hearing of people I know or know of, turning away from “their calling.” Way too many young men and women have given their money, time, resources to attend Bible school - their in debt. Yet - some of these are now disillusioned with their calling, the church, leadership and even God.
My conviction is to help train, equip people young and old to give their lives to God’s Here am I. It’s dangerous and will not always mean a paycheck, pulpit to preach behind or people applauding and cheering you on!
Practically, I’m encouraging upcoming (young and older) ministers to develop skills, schooling to be bi vocational. To “earn a paycheck” outside of the church. I want to continue being honest with those God brings my way to guide, shepherd into their God commission.
I love You Daddie God, Jesus and Spirit of God! Thank you for allowing me to earn a paycheck through Your church. I am humbled, honored - and may the holy fear of the Lord ever be growing in my heart. May the “Here am I” heart I want to have be ready for Your assignment - no matter the cost! Lord have mercy on me!
