WHEN GOD CALLS

In 1995, I was just a teenager with a dream, a deep calling to serve the Lord. That calling led me to consider studying at the Gevorkian Theological Seminary. But my qualifications were less than impressive. My grades weren’t great. My teachers didn’t hold back—they laughed and said, “You? Seminary? You’re not cut out for this.” Even family members gently suggested it might not be the right path for me.

While others doubted me, my parents believed in me. My church community encouraged me. They saw a spark of faith and a willingness to serve where others saw shortcomings. Above all, God believed in me, planting the seed of hope that would guide me forward.

In 1997, after two years of study and preparation, I applied to the Gevorkian Seminary. But then came the news: I was informed that there would be no admissions that year. It felt as though another door had slammed shut. But when God calls you, no closed door can keep you out. He redirected my steps to Vasgenyan Seminary in Sevan, reminding me that His purposes can never be stopped.

Fast forward 22 years to 2019, by the grace of God, I became the Dean of the Gevorkian Theological Seminary—the very place where I had once been told there was no room for me. The place others thought was out of my reach became the platform where God demonstrated His power and faithfulness.

I share this story with you to remind you that God’s plan for you isn’t based on other people’s opinions. It’s not based on your past mistakes or your present weaknesses. It’s based on His calling for your life. Friends, when God writes your story, He takes what looks impossible and uses it to show His unmatched greatness and unfailing love.

Philippians 1:6 says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” God doesn’t start something in your life just to leave it unfinished. If He planted the dream in your heart, He will make a way for it to come to pass.

So don’t give up. Don’t let the laughter of others discourage you. Don’t let a closed door make you doubt God’s plan. Keep believing, keep trusting, and keep moving forward. The God who called you is faithful.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
January 8, 2025