Gracious Reception

Abstract

This chapter offers an alternative account of the Christian understanding of vocation, suggesting that vocational discernment is best understood not primarily as obedience to God’s call, but rather as a disposition of “gracious reception.” The point is initially illustrated with a poem by Rainer Maria Rilke, followed by an account of the role of giving and receiving in Christian theological and liturgical traditions (particularly the Eucharist or Lord’s Supper). In a multi-faith context, Christians are called to be receptive to the circumstances of others, including those who do not share their faith tradition. This perspective marks the ministry of Jesus, particularly with respect to his encounters with difference; three such encounters are used to illustrate the point. A more receptive disposition can help individuals to make better use of the advice and constructive criticism that comes from outside their own perspective.