THREE APPROACHES TO USE YOUR WORK TO FULFILL GOD'S MISSION
Christians may approach their work differently as it relates to mission. Their approach to work and mission can influence their career choices, work objectives, work-life balance, and ultimately the fruit of their work. But regardless of the approach, the call to be salt and light and reach the lost for Christ remains the same for all.
Work and Mission
For some Christians, work and mission are unrelated. They do their work responsibly, but mission is where their heart is. They could be less focused on advancing their careers and more devoted to serving in ministry. They welcome opportunities to serve the church, volunteer for parachurch organizations, go on missions, etc., and their work provides the means for them to do so. But work and mission are separate domains in their minds.
Work for Mission
For other Christians, work is a platform for sharing the Gospel with others. Some people choose to go into certain professions or places in order to reach particular populations. For example, some become doctors to do medical missions in Africa. Others acquire teaching credentials to teach English in the Middle East. Successful careers can translate to wider influence, and good incomes can further finance missions. But work is still a means to an end, allowing Christians to do ministry outside their day jobs.
Work as Mission
In this case, their work is their mission. They’ve become one and the same. So, for the medical doctor and the English teacher, work and witness can be integrated. Both are equally valued and function together to bring about holistic change to the blessing of others.
A holistic view of work is not only important for tentmakers, but also for lay people. When the majority of our waking hours are spent at work, we need to see how our faith has relevance in all of life. We all agree that our homes are an altar to God. Why not our workplace? We need to see God at work.
Crossing oceans does not make us a missionary or tentmaker. If our faith isn’t real at home, how can we expect things to be different when we go overseas? Integrating work and mission is basic preparation for tentmaking missions. Local workplace missions isn’t only training for future tentmakers. It is missional discipleship and outreach for the church at home. As God's people, how we do our work here should be no different than how we do our work anywhere else in the world. Work and globalocal mission go hand in hand.
Today, many people go overseas for their career. If an international career isn’t out of the question for you, then tentmaking missions is also an option. But preparation is critical: let work be mission now. Then we can take on next steps.
To find out more about missional work, contact us at info@goliveserve.org.