Today I had the privilege of witnessing two powerful examples of what it looks like to live out a calling. Examples of leadership marked by sacrifice, not status.
This morning, I interviewed a member of our Tithe team on our YouTube channel. He’s someone who has consistently displayed what it means to be a servant leader. Over the past several years, he has given freely of his time, energy, and resources—not for recognition, but to make a lasting impact. What started as a small men’s Bible group has grown into something that resembles a small church.
That group didn’t just stay in study mode. They’ve gone from occasionally volunteering at a men’s respite house to becoming a key force behind large donations and financial support for the homeless and addicted in our city. Today, he even sits on that organization’s board of directors.
None of this was done for personal gain. It came at a personal cost. And yet, the glow on his face, the joy in his voice—it's contagious. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment that can only come when you're walking in step with your calling.
Later in the day, my wife and I had the honor of hosting a table at the “Be the Story” event for Central Ohio Youth for Christ. The work YFC is doing in the lives of young people is nothing short of transformational. I won’t go into all the details—honestly, you should check them out yourself.
Scott, the Director of YFC, delivered a message about calling that stuck with me. He’s been leading YFC for nearly 30 years. With his talent and intelligence, he could have easily succeeded as an engineer or business leader. But instead, he chose to give his life to the work of reaching the next generation. Not because it offered the most accolades or income, but because it aligned with what God was doing in his life.
Scott didn’t choose the most prestigious path. He chose the most purposeful one for him despite a personal sacrifice. That’s not a knock on business leaders—I’m one myself. But it’s a reminder that no matter what field we’re in, we all have opportunities to lead others toward Christ. And sometimes, that calling will cost us something.
One biblical example that continually challenges me is Moses. His story is marked by radical obedience and profound sacrifice:
He gave up comfort – Leaving a quiet life as a shepherd to confront Pharaoh.
He endured criticism – The very people he led grumbled, doubted, and rebelled.
He interceded selflessly – When the people sinned with the golden calf, Moses pleaded for them, even saying:
“But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” (Exodus 32:32)He never reached the Promised Land – Moses led faithfully, knowing the fruit of his labor would be for others, not himself.
That’s servant leadership. That’s calling.
Today, I saw two men living like that. Freely giving of themselves. Obeying the call on their lives. Not worried about enjoying the Promised Land here and now—but working to help others get there.
My prayer today is simple: that wherever you are on your journey, God would give you moments to experience the deep joy that comes from living a life of selfless impact. That you’d count the cost—and find it worth every step.
-Mark
