At my previous church, I was asked to lead our all-staff devotional, and as someone who prefers working behind the scenes, I felt nervous about the public speaking aspect. However, the pastor reassured me with a lighthearted joke about moving up in the line of succession for preaching if I did well. But the truth is, I have always known that my place is “behind the scenes.” Wearing my black polo, standing offstage or in the back, I find fulfillment in serving as a tech. Through my journey of faith and career, I have come to realize that even when we don’t see the point in everything we do, God is always working in the background.

The concept of our “calling” resonated with me as I prepared for my big debut in front of the entire staff. It was during this time that my 4-year-old son plopped down next to me on the couch, engrossed in watching the story of Esther on the iPad. This biblical tale captivated my attention, and I urge you to explore it if you’re unfamiliar (preferably via the Veggie Tales video). Esther, an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, became queen and found herself in a position to save her people – the Jewish nation – from destruction. Despite her fear, Mordecai reminded her that she had been put in this position “for such a time as this.”

This phrase, “for such a time as this,” has remained with me because it holds a deeper significance beyond the story of Esther. It brings hope to the twists and turns of our lives. It assures us that we are not here by coincidence or accident, but that God has a purpose for each and every one of us. Meditating on this truth alongside Jeremiah 29:11, which declares God’s plans to prosper and give us hope and a future, I am certain that I am not a mere pawn in a cosmic game of chance.

Reflecting on my faith journey and career path, I can clearly see how God has orchestrated my story. Every position I have held, even the challenging ones like working construction for a summer, was part of God’s plan. Though not always easy or pretty, I am starting to see how each experience has aligned with God’s will in shaping me.

While I may not have been called to save a nation like Esther, I firmly believe that I have been called to be a part of the greater team at my church. The apostle Paul’s words in Romans 12:4-8 resonate deeply with me. They remind us that, just as our physical bodies have different members with various functions, we, as the body of Christ, have different gifts and roles. Whether it’s prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing mercy, each role is essential to our collective mission.

It is crucial for us, as tech people, to recognize the impact we can make as part of the team. Our roles may not carry the traditional title of “pastor,” but we have been called together by God – and together, we have the opportunity to make a significant difference. Look around your church, and you will find people making immense, kingdom-changing contributions. From the discipleship pastor who warmly welcomes and supports hurting individuals to the dedicated kids/nursery workers who provide a safe space for children, each person has been called for such a time as this.