Work and play often divide life's time, with work frequently seen as drudgery or a necessary duty, while play is eagerly anticipated. The difference lies in attitude, as work can leave one drained and cross, whereas play, even when exhausting, leaves one exhilarated. A story of two bricklayers illustrates this: one saw only the immediate task of laying bricks, while the other envisioned building a beautiful structure, showing how attitude shapes the perception of labor and its results. God has summoned each of us personally, not in a general call but as a specific invitation to be part of an elite group, the firstfruits. This summons, initiated by the Father drawing us to Christ, motivates us to respond freely, leading to repentance, understanding of Christ's sacrifice, and acceptance of it. With the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to fulfill the obligations of the New Covenant. This unique summons sets us apart to accomplish tasks others are not yet required to do, conforming our lives to His will and striving to be in His image. Recognizing who we are as the sons of God provides strong motivation to purify our conduct and attitudes to match His image. Our part in salvation, though small compared to God's, is vital. Those counted worthy are the ones who overcome, preparing themselves through righteous acts to be the bride of Christ, clothed in white linen, ready for the resurrection to the Kingdom of God. This awareness of being a special group, separated by God's summons, drives us to walk worthy of this great purpose.

Our vocation, as the summoned of God, defines our life's work and purpose. We are called to be dedicated, consecrated, separated, and belonging to God, forming a part of an exclusive group with the responsibility to glorify Him through our lives. This vocation is not a mere designation but a summons to witness for God, both individually and as a church, by striving for a purity of life that mirrors our Savior's. The summons is personal and specific, placing us in an elite group chosen by God to participate in His work of reproducing His image in us. Recognizing who we are fuels the motivation to live worthy of this high calling. Without seeing the importance of our role in God's purpose, our efforts will falter, and the consecration derived from being summoned will amount to little. Our calling is a tremendous privilege, setting us apart as the few selected to labor in God's magnificent operation across time. Like Jesus, who was invigorated by His desire to complete God's will, we are sent to do our part in this great work. Our lives gain profound significance when we bridge the connection between God, His purpose, and ourselves, driving us to live each day ensuring His will is done. This vocation demands urgency and diligence, as we are summoned to be holy and to yield to God's creative efforts. Specific instructions for fulfilling this summons are found in the scriptures, guiding us to seek humility, meekness, patience, unity, and to use our gifts in service. We are urged to put off former conduct, renew our minds, speak truth, and work with integrity, aligning our lives with God's will. Our part, though small, is vital in this process. By walking worthy of our vocation, we ensure we do not stumble through neglect or laziness, securing a way into the Kingdom of God. Overcoming and making ourselves ready, as symbolized by being clothed in white, reflects our commitment to live as the summoned, conforming our lives to His purpose.

In Ephesians 4:1, the word vocation appears, carrying a unique significance as an invitation rather than merely an occupation or profession. This invitation is to something profoundly thrilling, akin to being summoned to the wedding of a king's son, and even to be the bride. It is a call to walk worthy, to live in a manner that reflects the gravity and honor of this invitation. God urges us to make this calling our vocation, our primary work and occupation, by being balanced in approach and preparing for the Kingdom of God with a sharp, beautiful, and awe-inspiring vision. This vocation involves being invited to be holy, to be without blame before Him in love, and to be sanctified. Sanctification means becoming holy, growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, and overcoming challenges. It is a serious endeavor, as without holiness, no one will see the Lord. We are invited to prepare for unity in the Kingdom, to be one with God, part of His Family, His church, and His Kingdom, following a progression of this unifying purpose. Walking worthy of this vocation requires a balanced life, harmonizing doctrine and application, ensuring that our conduct is an attractive adornment of the underlying principles. Our actions must make God's way of life beautiful and winsome, drawing others to the hope that lies within. This balance and attractiveness in conduct are essential to fulfilling the invitation, ensuring that what we do outwardly aligns with the profound calling we have received.