A Call from God: Understanding Vocation
A vocation is a call from God to follow a specific path in life. This path may be a career, or it may be a life of service to others.
The Origins and Meanings of Vocation
Vocation is a term that originated in Christianity and has many meanings. In general, a vocation is an occupation to which a person is drawn or for which they are suited, trained, and qualified.
Examples of Vocation
An example of a vocation is becoming a priest or religious. In the Catholic Church, a vocation is also a commitment to serve the church by making a public vow of obedience.
Discerning Your Vocation
Choosing a vocation can be a difficult decision and the discernment process can be challenging, but it is important to know that God wants you to live out your vocation.
One of the best ways to discern your vocation is by prayer, especially by spending time in silence. Pray for God to speak to you and tell you what He has in store for your life.
You can also talk to a friend or family member who is living out the vocation you are considering, and ask them to share their experiences with you. Spending time in a vocational community can help you understand the daily routines and expectations of a particular vocation, so that you can determine whether it is something you might want to pursue.
Another way to discover your vocation is to speak with a vocational counselor or a vocational pastor. These people are trained to help students find their vocations, and develop the skills needed for them. They are akin to the career counselors you might see in high school, who can help you explore different careers and find one that will give you personal fulfillment.
The Significance of Vocation in the Christian Faith
A vocation is an important part of the Christian faith and should be taken seriously by everyone. The Bible calls Christians to love and serve their neighbors, and a vocation reflects that mission.
The most important aspect of a vocation is to love your neighbor as yourself. This is a central teaching of the Christian faith, and it is the foundation for all the other facets of the Christian life.
Types of Vocations
Some examples of a vocation are marriage, permanent diaconate, consecrated virginity and religious life. The Catholic Church considers these vocations a call from God to a life of love and service for the rest of your life.
Seeking Guidance in Discernment
If you are unsure about the vocation God is calling you to, it is always a good idea to contact a vocation director from the diocese or from the Religious Community of which you are interested in. The vocation director will be there to walk with you through the discernment process and can answer any questions you might have along the way.
Finding Your Vocation
Finding your vocation doesn't have to be complicated or stressful. It just takes a little effort on your part, and the right resources to guide you.
Having a vocation is a great way to feel more fulfilled and to improve your work-life balance. It will make you 55% more motivated and 22% more productive, and it can even reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
