Several years ago, I was following on social media the patriarch of a family whose daughter was a good friend and classmate of my daughter. I knew he was a devout Christian from many of his postings and because he was an excellent amateur photographer, he frequently updated his postings with quality photographs that far exceeded the usual selfies that were regularly posted on these sites.
One day, there was an unusual post, no photographs, just a long narrative. He shared the sad news that he was just let go from his job of the past twenty years. His wife did not work and he had two young children to support. With no immediate job prospects, he ended with a solemn, “God, here I am. Send me!”
And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”
Isaiah 6:8 (ESV)
My friend was quoting the Prophet Isaiah and in this context, God asked who would deliver the message of hope and light to the lost people of Israel. It was a daunting and unenviable task and likely one that may not even be completed within Isaiah or anyone’s lifetime. Yet, emboldened by his strong faith in God, Isaiah volunteered for the task, regardless of the cost.
I don’t think I have ever volunteered for a task when I did not know what the personal cost would be for me. I want to control every situation I encounter. I research the financial cost, the time it would require, and consider the impact it may have on my relationships. Only when I am satisfied that I can accomplish the task, do I agree to do it. Instead of trusting in God to complete what He has promised to do in my life, I trust in my abilities to strategize. God is an afterthought. My friend, like Isaiah, was willing to take a huge step in faith and allow God to shoulder his personal burdens. It was admirable and faith-affirming. His initial inclination was to place God first.
There is a happy ending to this story. Within a few months, my friend was hired for a new position, with a better salary. His faith never wavered, even during the tense months when there were no likely prospects.
Here I am! Send me!
Yes, Lord, please help my unbelief when I so often doubt Your sovereign power over my life.
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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