Babel Undone

God on Monday
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When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. (…) All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability (Acts 2.1,4). 

Reflection

Towards the start of the Bible, the Tower of Babel can be seen rising over the plain of Shinar. It was the first endeavour of human beings to ‘make a name’ for themselves. It was a monument to pride and selfish ambition. God’s response was to cause them to speak different languages so that they could not unite in such a project again. 

Towards the end of the Bible, a beautiful city, the New Jerusalem, can be seen coming down out of heaven. Worshipping God before the throne is a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people and language. The apostle John writes:

I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
‘See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them;
they will be his people,
and God himself will be with them;
he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.’

And the one who was seated on the throne said, ‘See, I am making all things new.’ (Revelation 21.3-5a).

Pentecost is a pivotal moment in this long arc of history. On that day, the Holy Spirit descends on God’s people - the church - and redeems God’s original plans for humankind. The Spirit brings understanding and unity so that God’s people can work together to see God’s ‘kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven’.

We can take heart from this that, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can be good news to the poor and marginalised, and see the brokenness and injustice in society addressed.

As Christians at work, we have been gifted with creativity and anointed by God’s Spirit to build beautiful, redemptive workplaces and organizations - not for our own wealth or glory, but for God’s. 

Response

• In what ways does your organization bring God glory? 
• How can you collaborate with others to bring greater unity amidst diversity? 
• Consider joining a group of workplace Christians for mutual support in integrating your faith with your work.

Prayer

Holy Spirit, may my work bring honour and glory to God. Help me lay down my pride and selfish ambition. Enable me to help my organization bring blessing to many, including those alienated for being different to the majority.

This Week's Author

God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the coming Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up to Faith in Business here to receive each God on Monday instalment.    

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