North Raleigh United Methodist Church Podcast
Sermon: Here I Am Lord
Here I Am | Rev. Laura Johnson | Exodus 3:1-12 What does God’s calling feel like? In this sermon, Rev. Laura Johnson explores the story of Moses and the burning bush in Exodus 3:1-12 and invites us to consider how God may be calling each of us in this season of our lives. While Moses receives an unmistakable call from God, complete with a burning bush and a voice calling his name, Laura reflects on how our own experiences of calling are often much less dramatic—and sometimes much more persistent. Moses responds, “Here I am,” before he even knows what God is about to ask of him. But when God sends him back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of slavery, Moses immediately begins offering reasons why he isn't the right person for the job. His story reminds us that feeling unprepared, inadequate, or afraid doesn't mean we aren't called. Laura shares from her own journey of calling to ministry, including the “burning” she first felt as a young teenager and the years it took before she could confidently say, “Here I am, Lord.” She reminds us that calling isn't only for pastors or church leaders. Every one of us is called to use our unique gifts, experiences, and passions in service to God and others. The sermon invites us to pay attention to the “burning bushes” around us—the people, opportunities, passions, and persistent nudges that may be pointing us toward where God is calling us next. Sometimes discerning a call means stepping outside our comfort zones, trying something new, and trusting God one step at a time. Most importantly, Moses' story reminds us that God doesn't call the equipped; God equips the called. As you listen, consider the question Laura poses: What does God's calling feel like today? Scripture: Exodus 3:1-12 ️ Preacher: Rev. Laura Johnson ⛪ North Raleigh United Methodist Church Key themes: calling, vocation, Moses and the burning bush, Exodus 3, discerning God's call, faith, courage, spiritual gifts, serving God, Christian discipleship, prevenient grace, finding your purpose, stepping outside your comfort zone, and trusting God.
