73 self with self-fulfillment as the primary focus. In contrast, religious definitions involve a summons that originates from an external source outside of the self. Neoclassical views on calling recognized an external source and emphasized a social responsibility; modern views of calling focus more on self-actualization and the “duty to self.”20 Because the concept of calling is found within the Bible, the foundational concepts and parameters for defining calling should be derived from and align with the scriptures. Dik and Duffy defined calling as “a transcendent summons, experienced as originating beyond the self, to approach a particular life role in a manner oriented toward demonstrating or deriving a sense of purpose or meaningfulness and that holds other-oriented values and goals as primary sources of motivation.”21 While Dik and Duffy’s definition is not explicitly Christian, it is aligned with the historic and religious understanding of calling.22 In the last decade, studies in calling have dramatically increased and usually focus on the relationship between calling and the work role.23 In a meta-analysis of studies regarding the construct of calling, Duffy and Dik expressed that those who view their work as calling report greater job satisfaction, greater career and organizational commitment, better job performance, improved well-being, and other positive work and life outcomes.24 A meta-analysis of calling research conducted by Thompson and Bunderson confirmed that calling demonstrates a positive relationship with employee health and general well-being.25 The construct of calling has become an important factor in the understanding of general well-being, career well-being, and subjective career success.26 Pastors serve because they have been called to do so.27 In particular, pastors are called to lead by shepherding God’s people and meeting their needs within the local church in ways that emulate Jesus and honor God.28 The Christian view of leadership is distinct from other worldviews and frameworks of leadership.29 The Bible calls Christian leaders to emulate the life and leadership of Jesus, who taught a seemingly paradoxical method where the leader serves the needs of the followers over self.30 Barna stated, “A Christian leader is someone who is called by God to lead; leads with and through Christlike character; and demonstrates the functional competencies that permit effective leadership to PASTORAL CALLING AND OVERALL JOB SATISFACTION
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