Purpose is a cultural catch-phrase that continues to taunt and tantalize us. Preached from the pulpit. Praised from the world stage. Pondered within the pages of books. And posted on digital devices. 

Finding our life purpose (as if it were lost), makes promises of an awaited significance and drives us to pursue unearthed potential. We want it. Crave it. Are desperate for it. And yet, for many of us, rooting out our purpose seems an exercise in futility. 

The premise of purpose inspires a sense of hope that we matter and have something important to contribute to this world. On the flip side, it can confuse us, confine us, and make us certifiably crazy if we can’t figure it out, or make it happen the way we think it should.

I am one in the countless crowd who suffers under the weight of unrealized purpose. Or am I? Herein lies the predicament of purpose.

Although I do believe we are called to participate in a specific area of passion that fits a unique purpose, I don’t want to get stuck in a holding pattern while the rest of my life assignments pass me by. 

Truth is, my life contains layers of purpose, not just one big assignment that God has placed on my heart or gifted me to perform. I am a multi-faceted woman with many purposes. Each stage. Each age. Each assignment is a layer. 

Like the rings of a tree tell a story about each stage of growth, so do the layers of our lives. Over the years, we should be able to look back and see the beauty of each layer and how collectively they have built a life of purpose.

You see, God invited us to be a part of His global mission found in Mark 16:15 which calls us to go into all the world and preach the good news. Our charge is to accept each personal assignment as a layer of this purpose. To pray our way to them and through them.

We are a mighty army of workers and warriors, teammates and cohorts. Building bridges, crossing continents, and linking arms to support and carry this important mission in our homes, communities, workplaces, and beyond.

Purpose is a process. A journey. A burden and a blessing. The beauty of a purposeful life is found in the legacy of how we steward the assignments of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Hugs for a great week and remember, you are not alone. Be blessed as the layers of your life create a beautiful legacy of purpose