Countercultural 

God on Monday
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In the temple, he found people selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables. Making a whip of cords, he drove all of them out of the temple, both the sheep and the cattle. He also poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 
(John 2:14-15)

Reflection

When company scandals become headline news, I wonder how many of us feel the kind of righteous indignation Jesus appears to demonstrate in this scene.

The exact causes of Jesus’ indignation are unclear, but they are likely to have included evidence of power-broking, greed, and deceit. Most of us are likely to have witnessed the exercise of similar vices in our workplaces.

I occasionally lecture post-graduates on career choices and find it helpful to cite a 2021 Gallop poll of Millennials and Gen Z (people born 1981-2012). The research identified three key characteristics this generation looks for in an employer, all of which to me seem to have biblical precedent: 

• The organisation cares about wellbeing (1 Corinthians 6:19).
• The organisation’s leadership is ethical (James 2 14-26).
• The organisation is diverse and inclusive of all people (Galatians 3:28).

But back to our reading from John’s gospel. What was Jesus intending as he made a whip of cords, poured out the coins of the moneychangers and overturned their tables? It was probably to remind everyone that the purpose of the Temple as a place of worship was incompatible with their marketplace ethics.

Centuries on, we are still prone to ignore the fact that people matter in business. But the idea that all that really matters is the maximization of profit (regardless of other concerns) is not the only way to do business. All over the world are examples of companies that prioritize relationships, hold themselves accountable to a broad range of stakeholders, and operate according to strong moral principles.

Jesus’ actions and teachings encourage us to be a positive influence in the workplace. His Spirit within us gives us the means to be countercultural wherever and whenever necessary.

Response

Who do we live to serve? Are we fit for purpose? Does the way we work, individually and corporately, stand up to ethical scrutiny? Determine to act in ways that honour God’s commandments, reflect Jesus’ teachings, and furthers the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Prayer

Lord, give me the courage to behave in ways that are pleasing to you, as I head into another working week. May your Spirit prompt me to action where things are wrong. Give me the humility, wisdom, and discernment to work with others to make things right. Amen.

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

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