I recently was in a conversation about attitudes concerning one’s task in the workplace. Someone commented that there are people who, when asked to perform some specific chore, would retort with the words, “It’s not my job.” And as I later reflected on this conversation topic, I realized that these words often reflect a specific type of work ethic—that sees oneself merely as a body that fills some office space in order to earn some money. My work is “just a job,” something that I do so that I can earn money to spend on my indulgences, myself, or my family. That’s all that matters. There is no consideration or care whether the company does well or fulfills its goals efficiently.
Another work ethic, however, looks beyond personal indulgences and conveniences. It is that type of mindset that sees one’s role in the workplace as being part of a bigger mission. For the good of the organization and for the accomplishment of its mission, one is willing to do what is necessary regardless of what is outlined in one’s job description. In other words, one is not just job-oriented but mission-minded. For example, a worker in a computer production line does not see himself only as one who places a microchip on a motherboard. Rather, he sees himself as part of a team that is building a top-notch laptop.
For a follower of Christ, the vision of one’s work is that of an even wider mission than of a human company. “Respectfully obey your earthly masters but always with an eye to obeying the real master, Christ. Don’t just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ’s servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God” (Ephesians 6.5–7 The Message). The greater mission is to fulfill the purpose of God in this world. And the principle applies to any kind of task—at work, at school, at home, at church.
The mission-minded person does not need to be asked. He will step up when he sees the need and knows he can fill that need. He exercises proper discretion to advance the mission. If circumstances demand it, a mission-minded bank manager steps up to sweep the office floor, or a mission-minded church member offers to babysit for a parent so that the parent can fulfill a ministry role on that day. All this is to accomplish God’s purposes and for his glory. “And whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3.17 NET).
—Keith Y. Jainga