All In a Day's Work

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

Thinking about switching jobs … or considering a new career?

Economists say that the nation’s workforce is enjoying one of the best job markets in decades, with unemployment levels now at 50-year lows. Even so, landing that dream job is often a job itself — even in the best of circumstances. Employers are on the lookout for experienced, can-do candidates who meet some exacting criteria. And those who fail to impress won’t make it to that critical second interview.

The first hurdle is proving that you can do the job. A smart strategy is to share stories with the interviewer about how you’ve met challenges and succeeded at other organizations.

Personality is also a factor. Even if you’re well-qualified, you probably won’t get the job if the employer doesn’t sense the right chemistry. And are you a risk? In other words, do you have a reputation for being difficult to manage? Meanwhile, you must be affordable. There are many well-qualified professionals in the job market, so employers can eliminate you from consideration if they think your salary expectations are unreasonable.

Fortune 500 companies aren’t the only ones with such high standards. For example, Christ-followers are tasked with being a bright light of hope 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 overtime, weekends and holidays!) They must also follow the Boss’ (Jesus) instructions — even if what he says doesn’t make much sense at the time. Christ-followers should be humble in their work and share the credit whenever it’s due. And to top it off, they need to demonstrate initiative and seek opportunities to help others and make a difference.

Is it any wonder that most folks won’t respond to Christ’s help wanted ad? To borrow 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 difficult — even in today’s vibrant economy. But here’s some good news: Jesus is hiring right now for his organization’s growing team. And many of his highest producers had no previous experience in the field. Sure, 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!