Real and potential obsession with our work is, for many of us, a constant temptation. Cornelius Plantinga encourages controlling our work parameters wisely: “No matter what our primary occupation, we can’t let it become a preoccupation” (2002, 139). Our personal and communal lives ought to substantially exceed workplace limitations. Our other callings are significant and extensive. These may include, for instance, loving and honoring our families and friends, actively participation and using our gifts in local ecclesial (church) communities and contributing to justice and mercy in the church and culture. Jesus’ earthly life again exemplifies this full-orbed, holistic approach to vocation. His standard activities include substantial hours (apparently daily) away from the pressing concerns of his itinerate ministry even when the needs seem urgent and endless. Our Lord likewise calls us to pray, fast, rest, build relationships and the like: such practices illustrate the wisdom and balance our lives must have for faithful, energetic and effective Kingdom work.
This trinity—work as creational, Christocentric and constituent—provides the basis for a God-centered biblical model of work.
Grace & Peace, Steve Sherman
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