I used to have this verse sticked on my monitor at work. I trained myself into thinking that my analog circuit designing was for God. I would do a stellar job to serve God! (?)

At the end of the day though, my reports and progress updates went straight to my boss. And recognition from management in the forms of promotions and plaques were plenty rewarding for me. This verse became increasingly challenging and confusing. At one point I thought only pastors could truly live out Kingdom work and serve God... it didn't apply to laypeople like engineers who (by definition) build things for people.

Over time, I started to gain a better understanding...

A couple things this past week made me reflect on this passage again: a sermon linked from Guy Kawasaki's blog, a post about Redeemer's entrepreneur program from Justin, and Brian McLaren coming to town for the Integral Missions Conference. (btw, Cary will be presenting internet technologies including MyChurch.org at the conference)

I believe Colossians 3:23 applies to us all, not just pastors or missionaries. In fact, I think it applies first and foremost to the secular employee. The challenge to be salt and light really applies to those of us who work outside of the Church.

In my day-to-day grind, it was challenging for me to look at work as a gift from God. It was important to shift my mindset to appreciate that we're all serving someone in one way or the other - whether its clients, co-workers, subordinates, or bosses. And then appreciating the nobility, responsibility, and dignity in serving - as ultimately that is serving our Father.

There was a great line from the movie Life is Beautiful. When Guido was being trained to be a waiter, his instructions were simple:

You're serving. You're not a servant. Serving is a supreme art. God is the first servant. God serves men, but he's not a servant to men.