Freshman Reflections From Belmont UniversitySample

Day 4 – Vocation Who’s the Boss? Beloved, Colossians 3:23 reminds us that when we work, God should be our boss. Our managers, mentors, colleagues and even our families can all influence the way we do our jobs. Sometimes comparing ourselves to other people can affect the way we work. But Colossians encourages us to remember that God can impact our vocations in a wonderful way. God shows us how faithful He is to those who follow Him. This text reminds us that whenever we work and give our best to the Lord, He will become a part of whatever we do. And when God becomes part of our efforts, that work can now be used for so many things: His will, our character development and for the betterment of those around us. If all of us were to practice using our best efforts (the Amplified version of the Bible reads working “from the soul”) and refocus beyond the accomplishments of others (the New International Version of the Bible reads “human masters”) we could reach a newer, higher level of vocation. Our efforts would become part of our character and not just a chore. With this in mind, we get to discover more about who we are while we pursue our vocations. Christ’s vocation was the cross. And if we used an earthly measuring stick, He was too perfect to die a sinner’s death the way He did. But since God's will was the driving force behind this plan of salvation, Christ didn’t stay dead for very long; and as a result humanity is redeemed. So whenever I recognize that my efforts are small, I think of how Jesus, draped in humanity, gave His all and got His job done. No matter who is reading this, at whatever stage in your life: if you decide today that your vocational efforts will be bookended by God’s will, then you’ll always find peace in knowing that your work cannot be admonished or diminished by any earthly thing. Our God, His will and all works done in His name are everlasting. What a wonderful promise! DR. NADI BISHOP Bridges to Belmont Coordinator