Explore The Monastic Rhythms That Make for Healthy LeadershipSample

Discovering our Authentic Vocation in the World

The third core practice of the Benedictines was work. They embraced work as a spiritual practice, not just a natural activity that sustained them so they could do other spiritual stuff afterward. As we discussed recently, they recognized that all of life is sacred and infused with holy opportunity including our work. 

Because each of us carries the very image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26), we also carry a vocation—a custom calling to work in the world as a unique expression of God’s character and gift through us. Do you believe that? Do you know the essence of God’s great gift in you that the world needs and can only experience through you personally?

It’s true that many jobs are mundane and seem far removed from anything as lofty as a “vocation,” but let’s not leave it at that. First, if you feel stuck in a job and want to move toward something more purposeful, know that it honors God to reach for a work opportunity that allows for more of your authentic calling to shine. Second, even the dullest and least inspiring job contains opportunities for Christ-in-you to break out and impact others. 

Paul urges us in today’s verse to go all-in with our work, no matter how humble it appears. When we carry the expectation that Christ is always speaking, touching, and loving people through us in the workplace, then we begin to see what God is up to and partner with him every minute. What’s your next step in vocation?