COST OF THE CALL

Evangelical pastor Sines relates, in a short novel, his calling into the ministry.

Sines relates how, beginning early in his adult life, a vision from God changed his worldview and his priorities while challenging his family and his finances. Though doubtless that God had called him to some form of ministry or service, Sines was left wondering which exact direction to follow. Acting on the advice of others, he left his successful career in the security system business and set up his own company as a Christian-based firm. The venture eventually fizzled out, leaving Sines in a financial mess and questioning the validity of his calling. Moving forward, he began studies for the pastoral ministry and eventually took the pulpit at an inner-city Pennsylvania church, where further issues—ranging from debts to termites—challenged him, his family and his flock. In numerous instances, Sines speaks of times when God extricated him from seemingly insurmountable problems—moments he takes as proof of God’s grace. Sines also notes that while some problems (like termites in the church woodwork) are beyond anyone’s control, many issues are instead caused by our own disobedience. In forming his own company instead of taking the time to discern his calling, he admits that he unwittingly set himself up for problems. Throughout his journey, Sines writes, prophetic messages were fulfilled through dreams, visions and messages from others. Though the novel starts out slowly, Sines eventually finds a rhythm and provides a satisfying, if simple, narrative. The book will speak to those who are struggling with God’s calling in their lives and those suffering through hurdles as they attempt to live out their faith.

A plainspoken but poignant story of following God’s call.