Ready and Available

Mary Brown felt called to serve God. Born in Canada on this day in 1856, she later moved to Connecticut, where she became a teacher. She also was active in church work.

In 1899, she was inspired to write a song that expressed her willingness to serve God, no matter what He called her to do. It was called, “I’ll Go Where You Want me to Go, Dear Lord.”

She knew that serving God meant following Him, no matter what the assignment. That it meant surrendering her own desires.

She may not have been called to “the mountain’s height or over the stormy sea.” She may not have attracted headlines or faced “the battle’s front.” But, she knew that “my Lord will have need of me.”

The key was hearing His “still, small voice” and following Him on “paths I do not know.” But she was ready: “I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in Yours, I’ll go where You want me to go.” It didn’t matter if He called to “o’er mountain, or plain, or sea.”

Mary understood what Jesus told His disciples, that each of them had a personal destiny. A calling. That He was sending each person to do His work. As He breathed on them, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit,” He was assuring them that the Spirit would be with them. To equip and guide them. Empower them. But they needed to follow His lead and go wherever He called.

Today, remember that God has a special plan just for you. He has uniquely equipped you to serve Him, and accomplish great things for His Kingdom. He has given you unique opportunities and a unique mission field. Renew your dedication to serve Him.