40 Faces, 40 Places: A Devotional JourneySample

Susanna from Dorset

Sometimes whole-life discipleship looks like working and responding well to all.

My frontline is my job as manager of a charity shop for a local hospice. Throughout my working day, I sense God’s presence in people’s generosity, donations to support the hospice’s work in my county, and volunteers’ willingness to give their time for free. We also have regular customers who feel confident to talk about their days and lives, who see us as a place to find a bargain and vent. Some have gone through significant health issues, and others need to let out their frustration. Not all of them know about my faith, but I try to always give my time to them, even though I have a lot of jobs to do.

In customer service, there are times when you have to deal with difficult or unreasonable customers. Staying calm and professional can be tricky when all you want to do is say what you think. As a Christian, I try daily to show kindness and patience and treat everyone I meet equally, however hard that is.

I’ve also seen God work through me as constant support to my colleagues. Over the last year, they’ve gone through sudden bereavement, children excluded from school, teen pregnancy, and surgery. I know my support for them when it’s needed is a big help. There are company policies about not pushing religion, but there are also times when I’m asked how I would deal with a situation as a Christian. I always try and give the best advice I can. They know they can always count on me to be the designated driver for any evening staff event!

Reflection

Susanna seeks to do her job well in the charity shop. She’s motivated by the bigger picture – the revenue achieved helps fund the hospice's vital work. She has multiple tasks to do each day but recognizes the need to give time to others. She serves a range of customers – the regulars, the newbies, and the unreasonable complainers! Susanna seeks to listen well and fairly to all while juggling the challenges of the job. Over time, her relationships with her colleagues have grown. Her story is a great reminder to listen with care and demonstrate our faith in action when we have the chance to answer questions.

Prayer

Lord, help me do my job and tasks well today – whether paid or voluntary – at home or elsewhere. Help me see the bigger picture of my contribution – please give me greater insight into Your perspective on my work. Help me give appropriate time to the people I see, even when my to-do list is building up.