The American Dream?

Growing up I always heard about the American Dream… I know that it is about religious and political freedom among other things, but often I related it to the “rags to riches” story where the lowly peasant, through hard work and perseverance, makes it big in the US. They end up with the nice house, nice car, and a great business. Even though my parents often supported and directed me to do what I love, it still seemed as I grew up, that the nice house, nice car and a good career, was what I was suppose to aspire for. I was to go to college in order to get a good job that would turn into a career. As I progressed in that career, I would purchase a house and a nice car, get married and raise my 2.5 kids. This is what the American dream felt like to me. And yet, now, having had that, I find myself working towards a much different direction. I find myself with a different dream.

A couple of years ago, we sold our house, much to the dismay of friends, family and co-workers. Many wanted to know where we were buying our new house. Many were interested in how we were “upgrading”. Many were surprised we were moving into a Christian community and becoming renters again. To give up being a homeowner was like giving up part of the American dream. That thought was reflected in many of the conversations we had. People could not understand how we could leave that sense of security.  What many don’t quite understand is that I am beginning to find my security somewhere else.

Selling our house was just the beginning. I am now looking at leaving a career that I have done for over 20 years. Well, leaving is not really true. I will still be using my skills, but instead of working for a paycheck and promotions, I will be using it to serve others. Many have had a hard time understanding why I would choose to leave a fantastic job. To be honest, I struggle with it sometimes too. I love where I work. I love who I work with. But, to be completely honest, I love God more. He is calling me.

That’s the most important part that I hope to try to explain to people. We aren’t crazy. God is calling us. Our house was great. My job is fantastic. But I believe that God has something greater in store for us! I’m led to a story I grew up with in the Bible. A story of a man called by God, who didn’t know where he was going, or how everything was going to work out, and yet, he went. I’m not comparing myself to Abraham. I only wish I could have faith like that. But like him, I don’t know exactly where we are going, or how it will all work out, but I trust God. My dream has changed from gaining more stuff and building my own security in finances and houses, to leaving it all behind and following him. To serve, instead of being served.

When the disciples followed Jesus, he said, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” (Matt 8:20). I find it interesting that the disciples still followed Him. They knew something amazing was going to happen. And so, I leave behind my house and my career, to follow Jesus, because I know… something amazing is going to happen.

by Josh