SET APART FOR THE WORK FOR WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN CALLED

 

Being purpose-driven has become a byword in the recent years on account of a popular book by a well-known writer, Rick Warren. The idea, however, is by no means new. By nature, humans act purposefully. We always do things for a reason. What some of us often do not know, however, is the implicit purpose why we do what we do. More often, people are not even aware of the real motives behind their actions.

Today’s first reading speaks about the purpose-driven new life of Barnabas and Saul. But hold it, they did not attend a seminar given by Warren or any of our local religious gurus. It was not about them making their priorities. No. They were “called,” “set apart,” and tasked with some work — a work that they did not opt for.

We seldom hear people nowadays speak of vocation. That is just the Latin fancy name for “call.” In the world that we know, we choose jobs, professions, careers. We decide to become journalists, engineers, doctors or lawyers. That is not vocation, but avocation. But in biblical tradition, apostles did not decide to become apostles. Like Barnabas and Saul, they were set apart to do work for which they had been called.

“Work” in Latin is called “munus,” roughly translated as “office” or “task.” That is the root word of ministry. And the ministry of those who were called to the priestly office is one that necessitates a “call” from God, who chooses and sets apart men for His work of salvation.

Now, who represents the best example of this priestly ministry? The Gospel today tells us that. Jesus Himself claims His munus and priestly office: “I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness.”

People choose and decide to be lawyers and teachers. As a priest, I also decide to be a writer, a counsellor and a teacher. But priests did not just choose to be priests. They were “set apart for the work for which they have been called.” Fr. Chito Dimaranan,SDB

 

Reflection Question:

What has God set me apart to do?

 

Lord, grant me the spirit of discernment so that I may be able to know Your call for my life.

 

St. Elgiva, pray for us.