Help Wanted

 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.

– Luke 10:2

Although millions of Americans lost their jobs following the COVID-19 business shutdowns, there’s actually good news on the employment front. Companies like FedEx, Amazon and UPS are hiring thousands of new workers in preparation for the busy holiday season. There’s a national shortage of truck drivers. And Federal Reserve leaders just predicted that the unemployment rate will fall to 7.6% by the end of 2020, and to 5.5% by the end of 2021. 

If you’re in the job market, be aware that employers prefer experienced, can-do candidates who meet their exacting criteria. Those who fail to impress and excel in some

categories face the reality of not making it to the critical second interview. 

Your first hurdle is to prove to the interviewer that you can do the job. What’s more, employers have to decide if they like you. Even if you’re well-qualified, you probably won’t get the job if they think you lack the right chemistry. They also want to know if you’re a risk. In other words, do you have a reputation for being difficult to manage? And finally, you must be affordable. Employers will eliminate you from the running if they think your salary demands are unreasonable.

Corporations aren’t the only ones with high standards for their team members. For example, Christ-followers are tasked with preparing God’s Kingdom and being a bright light in a dark, troubled world. And since it’s such an important job that can yield eternal, life-changing rewards, only certain candidates are considered. First, they must be available on an as-needed basis. (Expect to work some weekends and holidays!) They also need to be obedient and follow the Boss’s (Jesus) directions — even if they don’t make much sense at the time. Effective Christ-followers must also be humble in their work and share the credit whenever it’s due. Overtime and sacrifice are a given. And to top it off, they must display initiative and be on the lookout for opportunities to help their customers (neighbors), both local and foreign.

Is it any wonder that most people won’t respond to Christ’s help wanted sign? To quote the U.S. Navy’s old recruiting slogan,“It’s not just a job, it’s an adventure.” Here’s how Luke’s gospel records Jesus’ words to his would-be candidates:

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”

Landing a job can be hard — even in a vibrant, growing economy. But here’s some good news: Jesus is hiring right now for his organization’s growing team. And many of his highest-producers have had no experience in the field. Yes, the working conditions aren’t always ideal. But there are plenty of rewards along the way. And the retirement plan is out of this world.