A lot of weird things go through your mind when your husband is called as bishop.
“I know everyone says that bishops aren’t perfect, but I didn’t realize they would call someone so normal like us!”
“Oh no, we are going to be judged a lot.”
“This isn’t a convenient time in our life.”
“Will I ever see my husband again?”
“Hey this actually might be a lot of fun!”
… and a lot more weird, conflicting thoughts.
But it’s like our stake president could read my mind as we sat there in his office, processing the call.
He very wisely said:
“The Lord didn’t call you guys because you are perfect. Or even near-perfect. The Lord has called you because you are willing to serve.”
Prophets, apostles, bishops, RS presidents, counselors, teachers, ministering brothers and sisters of any kind throughout time have not been perfect.
I’ve loved reading in the Old Testament this year about flawed, VERY FLAWED, humans that God used to spread His message and accomplish miracles.
But He was able to use them because they were WILLING to serve.
Isaiah, the man that we often revere as some kind of special guy who could spout off powerful prophecy that is complicated and deeply spiritual, felt unworthy for his call, too!
He felt so inadequate.
But then the Lord cleansed Isaiah from his sins, and he had a change of heart:
“I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)
Now Isaiah was ready to accept the call.
Not because he no longer had any weaknesses or desire to sin.
Not because he would always make good decisions in the future.
But because he was now willing to accept the call.
That’s all God really wants from us.
Willing moms and dads.
Willing ministering brothers and sisters.
Willing missionaries.
Willing musicians.
Willing scriptorians.
Willing hearts.
He wants you, not in some future, perfected state.
But exactly as you are right now, if you are willing to give your heart to Him.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
2 Responses
This really hit home to me as I was just asked to teach gospel doctrine in our ward. My husband was just released as a YSA bishop and I was so hoping to get a primary calling. Nope! Such a surprise to me! I asked myself why me! I’m not qualified! There are so many more people better qualified than me! I am grasping at all the helps I can get!
Your calming words and insights have helped but I am still so nervous. I am not a scriptorian and am so worried I’ll mess up my words and
not sound intelligent!
Thank you for sharing this message. I know if I put my faith in Him, he will guide me as to what to teach and say. 🙏
You’ve got this! <3