When God Calls You Somewhere Unexpected

Throughout Scripture, we encounter stories of men and women called by God to serve or lead—often without fully understanding the scope of their calling. Like Esther, who was placed “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14), many are placed in moments of history where their faithfulness becomes pivotal in fulfilling God’s purposes.

God often positions us in specific times and places, not by accident but with divine intention. He calls us to rise to a challenge, meet a need or minister to others in ways that may feel unexpected or overwhelming. It’s not that we are the only ones who can do the task, but that we have been chosen to do it now. Our faithful response can be a conduit of healing, hope and blessing to those around us.

Shortly after I arrived in Indianapolis, Ind. to serve as a youth pastor, a tragic event occurred. The beloved principal of our local Adventist school, along with his son and niece, was killed in a devastating car accident. The loss was heartbreaking and deeply impacted the entire school community.

Due to the urgent need created by the principal’s sudden absence, the conference asked me to step in as interim principal until a permanent replacement could be found. While this was never part of my original assignment, I recognized that God had placed me there for such a time as this.

In addition to the everyday demands of school leadership, this role required helping the school community navigate deep grief, uncertainty and emotional healing. It was a season of prayerful leadership, deep compassion and complete dependence on God. What began as a short-term assignment turned into more than two years of service. And while it was certainly a challenging season—for both the community and for me personally—we witnessed God’s faithfulness in remarkable ways.

Every member of our leadership team stepped into unfamiliar responsibilities. We prayed, we learned, we leaned on each other—and through it all, God sustained us. The school not only endured; it grew stronger. We experienced firsthand what it means when God equips those He calls.

As followers of Jesus living in the closing scenes of earth’s history, we must be ready and willing to say yes when God calls. We may not always feel prepared, but if we are open to His leading, He will use us powerfully. Are you willing to stand up and take the call God has extended to you specifically? Will you trust Him to guide you through the path He has called you to take? May we each be faithful to the calling He has placed on our lives—for such a time as this.

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By Daniel Ortega

President

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