The Unexpected Sacredness of Your Everyday Work
We often compartmentalize our lives, neatly separating “sacred” spaces – like church and family – from “secular” ones – like our jobs. But what if I told you that your everyday work, the tasks you perform in your “secular” career, possesses an inherent sacredness simply by virtue of its existence? Jordan Raynor, a tech entrepreneur turned pastor and author of “The Word Before Work,” argues powerfully that this is the case. His journey, from building multiple successful companies to realizing the profound significance of his professional life, offers a radical shift in perspective. This isn’t about adding a spiritual layer to your job; it’s about recognizing that your work, as a reflection of God’s creative spirit, is already imbued with value. Let’s explore this concept in depth, unpacking the surprising connection between faith and the work we do, and how to embrace that sacredness in our daily routines.
The concept of “secular work” itself is a fascinating one. “Secular” literally means “without God.” It’s a term rooted in a historical separation of church and state, and by extension, a separation of the spiritual and the material. However, Raynor contends that this separation is fundamentally flawed, particularly for Christians. He challenges the idea that our work is merely a means to an end – a way to earn a living – rather than an opportunity to reflect God’s character and contribute to His kingdom. This article will delve into why this shift in perspective is so crucial, examining the historical context, practical implications, and ultimately, the profound joy that comes from embracing the sacredness of your work.
Understanding the Roots of the “Secular” Divide
The distinction between “sacred” and “secular” isn’t a new one. It’s a relatively recent development in Western thought, largely stemming from the Reformation and the rise of individualism. Prior to this period, work was often viewed as an integral part of God’s creation, a means of sustaining life and providing for the community. The concept of a “calling” – a divinely appointed purpose – was central to medieval society, and individuals were expected to use their skills and talents to serve God and His people. However, the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and individual autonomy gradually eroded this perspective, leading to a growing separation between the spiritual and the material realms. The rise of capitalism further solidified this division, viewing work primarily as a means of economic gain rather than a reflection of God’s goodness.
Interestingly, the initial reaction to chaplains in professional sports – particularly in the NFL – mirrored this broader societal skepticism. Early on, many team owners viewed chaplains as a distraction, even a hindrance, believing they were promoting religious influence within the team and undermining the focus on athletic performance. As Dave Wilson recounts in his conversation with Jordan Raynor, there was a prevalent belief that a chaplain’s role was to tell players that football wasn’t important, only worshipping Jesus was. This distrust highlights the deeply ingrained assumption that work should be devoid of religious significance. It’s a fascinating example of how societal norms can shape our understanding of purpose and value.
Raynor’s Personal Transformation: From Entrepreneur to Minister
Jordan Raynor’s own story powerfully illustrates this shift in perspective. For ten years, he built and sold two successful tech companies, a testament to his drive and entrepreneurial spirit. He was on track to launch a third venture when a simple sermon changed his trajectory. Raynor describes feeling a growing sense of unease and restlessness, a feeling that he was missing something more profound. During a guest preacher’s sermon focused on missions, he and his wife realized they were being called to plant a church – a completely different path than the one he had envisioned. This wasn’t a dramatic, sudden conversion; it was a gradual awakening to the realization that his skills and talents, honed through his entrepreneurial experience, could be used to serve God in a new and meaningful way. He recognized that the very qualities that had driven him to build successful businesses – discipline, creativity, strategic thinking – could also be applied to building a thriving ministry.
This experience underscores a key point: God doesn’t call us to abandon our work; He calls us to redeem it. He can take our skills, our passions, and our talents and transform them into instruments of His grace. It’s about asking, “How can I use what I’m already doing to bring God’s love and Kingdom into this world?” This isn’t about adding a spiritual veneer to our jobs; it’s about recognizing the inherent dignity and value of honest work as a reflection of God’s creative activity.
The Fruit of the Spirit and the Workplace
Raynor’s book, “The Word Before Work,” explores the concept of the “fruit of the Spirit” – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – as a lens through which to view our work. These qualities aren’t just abstract virtues; they’re concrete manifestations of God’s presence within us. And, crucially, they can be perceived negatively by some employers. As Ann Wilson pointed out during the FamilyLife Today interview, an owner might worry that a colleague exhibiting love, joy, and peace in the workplace could be seen as a distraction or even a threat to productivity. This highlights the challenge of integrating faith and work in a secular environment – sometimes, our values will be misunderstood or even resisted.
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However, Raynor argues that these qualities are not a weakness; they are a strength. A workplace infused with love, joy, and peace is a more productive, more creative, and more fulfilling environment for everyone. When we approach our work with a spirit of generosity, compassion, and integrity, we not only honor God but also create a positive impact on the lives of our colleagues and customers. It’s about demonstrating the very essence of Christ’s character in our daily interactions.
Practical Steps to Embrace the Sacredness of Your Work
So, how can you cultivate a sense of sacredness in your “secular” work? Here are five practical steps to consider:
- Start with Prayer: Begin each workday with a prayer of gratitude and intention. Ask God to guide your actions, to give you wisdom, and to help you use your talents to serve Him and others. A simple prayer acknowledging His presence and seeking His guidance can transform your approach to your work.
- Seek Purpose Beyond Profit: While financial success is important, strive to find purpose beyond simply earning a paycheck. Ask yourself, “How can I use my skills to make a positive impact on the world?” Even small acts of kindness, generosity, and service can be a powerful expression of your faith.
- Practice Excellence: Strive to do your best work, not out of a desire for recognition or reward, but out of a desire to honor God’s creation. Treat your work as an act of worship, approaching it with diligence, creativity, and a commitment to quality. Raynor emphasizes that excellence is a form of obedience – a way of showing our love and respect for the Creator.
- Cultivate Relationships: Recognize that your work is not done in isolation. Build positive relationships with your colleagues, treat them with respect and dignity, and strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment. Remember that you are representing God in your workplace.
- Remember the Big Picture: When facing challenges or setbacks, take a step back and remember that your work is ultimately part of God’s larger plan. Trust that He is working through you, even when you don’t see the immediate results. This perspective can help you persevere through difficult times and maintain a sense of hope and purpose.
Beyond the Individual: The Kingdom Impact of Our Work
The sacredness of our work extends beyond our individual experiences. When we approach our jobs with a spirit of faith and integrity, we contribute to the building of God’s Kingdom on Earth. Our work can be a witness to His love, a source of comfort and support for others, and a means of advancing His justice and mercy. Raynor’s work with his church demonstrates how a transformed perspective on work can lead to tangible expressions of faith – planting churches, serving the community, and sharing the Gospel with those who need it most.
Consider the countless ways that different professions – from healthcare to education to manufacturing – contribute to the well-being of society. Every job, no matter how seemingly mundane, has the potential to be a reflection of God’s goodness and a testament to His creative power. By embracing the sacredness of our work, we are not just fulfilling our careers; we are participating in God’s mission to renew and restore the world.
