Cruise Ship or Battleship? It's Your Call...

"Let's imagine you've just stepped onto a cruise ship for the vacation of your dreams. Your expectations are high--you have picked the best rated cruise liner, the best destinations, the best weather possibilities, and you've paid a premium price. shortly after the cruise begins, the weather changes from cloudless skies and calm seas to wind, rain, and turbulent water. The changing conditions have taken some of your desired activities and freedoms away. You are now forced indoors for most of the time and are relying on the food and amenities to make up for what was taken from you. You are disappointed by the service, which seems unreasonably slow, and the food, which is not as hot and fresh as you expected. All of the other people, who are also seeking shelter from the weather, are invading your space--they are needy and too loud and too numerous. Even when you retreat to the sanctuary of your cabin, you can still hear their voices and their clunking around. You find yourself shouting (at least under your breath), "Why do things have to be like this; why do things have to be so hard;why can't you come through for me God--at least once?

  
    Now let me simply change the setting of the story. You are boarding a ship, but it is not a vacation cruise liner; it is a battleship. You have dreamed of and worked hard for this day. Your expectations are high--to be in the company of other warriors playing a significant part  in a great battle for the lives and freedom of others. It's crowded, but you are glad you are not alone and you know that you need other. The food isn't great, but it sustains you. Life fluctuates from boredom to intensity, but you know you are moving toward the objective. The conditions outside may be rough, but you hardly notice because you're focused on your role, your job, your contribution on the ship, and your preparation. You find yourself shouting (at least under your breath), "When do I get to do what I was trained to do; when do I engage the enemy."

This word picture is so awesome I just had to share it. It's from Gary Barkalow's excellent book on calling entitled It's Your Call, which, if you haven't read or listened to the audiobook, I highly recommend. (It's still available on iTunes for $9.95!)