When I was first hired, I was told that people take semesters, sometimes years, to finally decide to attend Seminary. I didn't "get it" and thought, "No, you either know it or you don't, there's no deciding."

It's proving to be true, but instead of being something discouraging, it's actually a source of hope. Like many in the scriptures who did not begin ministry right away or even when we would consider the "proper time," it makes me hopeful that people in their 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's and some in their 60's are still stepping out and prayerfully considering the "next step" that is Seminary. I'm so dependent on immediate responses, that these seasons of waiting and thinking and seeking and praying, become training grounds themselves to prepare students for what they need to be here.

As some new students began this spring, it was refreshing to see that God's voice was being heard and heeded by men and women as they step into the training ground that is Alliance Theological Seminary.

It IS never too late.

The fall semester is now underway with some 160 new ATS students combined at our Rockland and Manhattan campuses. It is so encouraging to see that, even in this time of financial turmoil in our country, there are still men and woman, called of God, who are willing to step out in faith to pursue their mission. I can think of two pastors from Asia who are studying here, their families back home, but still willing to pursue the call.

I asked one of them, "Do you miss your family?"

"Of course," he replied, "always. Hopefully they can come, but we must pursue the call."

THE CALL - still being answered at ATS in 2009!