Christians need a wider frame of reference than we are usually given in which to evaluate our work. The only frame that makes sense for the Christian is the work that God is doing in the world. This wider frame generates a much more interesting set of questions than is usually the case when Christians reflect on their work. I offer the following as examples of the kinds of questions that I believe Christians should be asking of themselves and each other as they seek to be faithful disciples in this central area of their lives. Do you think the following questions might generate a more interesting and useful (even if more uncomfortable) conversation about “Christians and work”?

 In what ways might the work I’m doing (or considering doing, or have done in the past) be understood as continuing the work that God wants done in the world? Specifically, in what ways might the work I’m doing be understood as participating in God’s work of shalom in the world—that is, God’s work of bringing wholeness, healing, and reconciliation to all creation? 

 Are there any reasons for thinking that God doesn’t want this work done? Are there specific and identifiable ways in which this work causes injury, fosters alienation, or otherwise contributes to the world’s brokenness? 

 Given that God’s deep desire is that each of us be conformed to the image of Christ—who was fully and truly human—in what ways does this work make me more human? Less human? 

 In what ways does it help make other people more human? Less human? In light of the above, in what ways might the work I’m doing be understood as rendering genuine service to God and neighbor? If I cannot consider it to be such, should I be doing this work? If I continue to do it, how will I avoid living a radically fragmented life where what I do for many hours each week remains separate from (if not works against) my commitment to God’s work in the world?