Laypeople reclaimed their callings and God’s grace in their lives at the Northern Illinois Laity Convocation, Feb. 8 at New Lenox United Methodist Church.

About 100 people found inspiration in the Board of Laity’s theme for the event, which they drew from the Star Wars franchise: “A Renewed Hope: May God’s Grace Be with You.”

God’s grace, and how it comforts and challenges, infused the speaker’s encouraging words.

Rev. Eugene Williams, NIC co-lay leader, found quotes from the Star Wars movies — particularly those of the Yoda character — that can inform Christian discipleship.

One was “Do or do not; there is no try.” Discipleship requires our complete commitment. Half-hearted tries at following God will not get us far and will not enable us to use our gifts to build the world God intends.

Yoda also taught his protégé, Luke Skywalker not to trust his eyes or ears, but to follow the force. “It’s easy to think that something can’t be done,” Mr. Williams said, noting the many obstacles that discourage us. But following our force — God — makes all things possible.

Reflecting on grace and hope, Bishop Dan Schwerin recalled the wisdom of theologian Jürgen Moltmann, who had been conscripted into the German army during World War II. Eventually, he was captured and sent to a prisoner of war camp in Scotland.

Moltmann and the other prisoners experienced God’s grace from the camp chaplain, who invited them to his home every Sunday for a homemade dinner.

Only a suffering God can help those who are suffering, Moltmann taught.

“If we don’t embrace the suffering God, our faith is superficial,” Bishop Schwerin said.

“Don’t go into despair. The resurrection brings hope. Christ walks beside us unseen,” he said, reminding those gathered about the story of the two travelers on the road to Emaus (Luke 24:13-35).

Two speakers urged the laypeople present to find and live out their callings.

“Do you hear the cries of those who are not in the church?” asked Michael Pope, president of the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders and the California-Nevada Conference lay leader.

“We have spiritual gifts so we can live into our purpose, to know our reason for being,” she said.

Conference Treasurer Elaine Moy talked about her call in terms of empire vs. Christianity. Sometimes we conflate the two, she said.

“I want to be made uncomfortable when I am at church,” she said, countering the temptation to assume all is well with the world. “It’s our job to be uncomfortable.”

We can tolerate discomfort by embracing hope.

“Bring hope wherever you go,” Ms. Pope, the AACLL president. “Have courage and do not be afraid.”