Truth-Lit Work 

God on Monday
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But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God (John 3:21, NRSV)

Reflection

These words of Jesus suggest that living the truth goes beyond believing the truth. It is about allowing the truth to permeate and shape every facet of our lives.

The truth talked about in this passage is the transformative impact of Christ’s humiliation and exaltation on the cross, symbolised by Moses’ lifting up of the serpent in the wilderness. The lifting up of Christ on the cross brings not only salvation but a renewed life. The light of God, revealed in Jesus, penetrates the darkness within and around us, and shows us how to live with authenticity and integrity.

In the context of work, authenticity and integrity have profound significance. Authenticity is about being true to moral principles and ethical standards. It involves fostering honest communication, cultivating genuine relationships, and upholding a commitment to transparency. 

Integrity, on the other hand, transcends ethical behaviour; it encompasses a broader spectrum of virtues that include good stewardship, diligence, professionalism, creativity, and boldness. 

What might these virtues mean in practice? Here are some suggestions, just to get us thinking:

• Good stewardship means responsibly managing the resources and opportunities entrusted to us.
• Diligence requires a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence.
• Professionalism entails treating others with respect, maintaining confidentiality, and upholding the standards of our chosen field of work.
• Creativity and boldness spring from a heartfelt response to the grace shown in the sacrificial and saving act of Jesus. It prompts us to explore innovative solutions, take calculated risks, and seize opportunities for growth.

In living out our faith in these ways, our work can become a canvas on which the transformative power of truth is vividly displayed.

Response

Jesus’ words in John 3:21 challenge us to consider whether our work withstands the scrutiny of God's light. Are we conducting ourselves with the authenticity and integrity made available to us through Christ’s redemption? Are we doing our part in seeking to align the conduct of our profession with the eternal truths found in the teachings of Jesus?

Prayer

Gracious Father, thank you for the transformative effect of Jesus' sacrifice. Illuminate our work with authenticity, integrity, and the virtues of good stewardship, diligence, professionalism, creativity, and boldness. May our work thereby reflect your truth and inspire the people with whom we work. Amen.

This Week's Author

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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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