Fugitive and sheep-herder Moses had an irresistible encounter with a burning bush. Peter and Andrew left fishing nets to follow an itinerant rabbi and were recognized and promoted from the larger group of followers and designated by their leader as "apostles" (Luke 6:13-14). For Saul, it was a blinding light, the Lord's clear voice, and the grace-filled guidance of Ananias.

And throughout the centuries ever since, Christian leaders have been called by unlikely means.

John Chrysostom, preferring the quiet of the cloister, refused an invitation to become bishop of Constantinople. Only after he was kidnapped and forcibly installed did he accept the position as God's calling for him.

Martin Luther was returning to law school during a violent storm, and lightning struck so close that he feared for his life. "Save me, Saint Anne, and I'll become a monk," he cried. Amazingly, he honored the panic-provoked vow, which turned out to be the beginning of a religious calling that forever changed the church. ...