Seamless Lives of Faith | Isaiah 42:6
Joseph Sosa ‘25
“I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations”
After the first official month of the Fellows program, I can officially say that it has been overwhelming. It’s a balancing act of staying consistent in work, youth ministry, fellows seminars and dinners, as well as unscheduled but intentional community building. I’ve found myself pulled in a few directions because, knowing what a blessing it is to be in this community, I feel that I have to be present for it all, and to meet this unspoken standard of excellence. If I can fit an event in the schedule, shouldn’t I do it? It can be easy to get caught up in the rush and the fun of it. I’ve truly enjoyed the community and find myself sacrificing the time I have set aside for personal reading, writing seminary papers, or even working on this blog post for spending time with the fellows! However, I firmly believe that God has placed me in Northern Virginia for more than these friendships, and while I am meant to enjoy the blessing of this program’s community, it is not the only reason any of us are here. Over the course of this week, and in consideration of the verse above, I’ve been reminded of the importance of balance.
Firstly, Isaiah states that we are called by God to righteousness – a firm commandment from a just, holy, omniscient authority who loves us. When we step into that calling, we will be guided by Him, as He gives us all the resources we need to succeed. This statement should instill confidence in us. Just as the Israelites who went into battle with the Ark of the Covenant, should we not face our struggles with quiet and innate confidence, knowing that we walk a path greater than any other? This program is meant to support us in our path to righteousness, and to affirm that we are not alone by providing a community that strengthens us in this endeavor.
Furthermore, our righteousness, or upright moral conduct, is equally important. We are meant to be set apart and living testimonies, as our actions are one way we share the truth of God’s word. God has given us by covenant to others, to be faithful leaders among men. His blessing bestowed upon us is to be a light for all nations. Man is not necessarily the gift God presents to the world, but through this vessel, He proclaims His grace. We ourselves are not lights to the nations; rather, God’s grace shines through us, imperfect representatives that we are. As we transition into an eventful life in Northern Virginia, we must be faithful and receptive to our calling to be a light for the nations, and to be the best in all that we do for the Lord’s sake. At the end of the day, we are not here merely to be in community, balance work and life, or serve God’s people,