Have you ever thought about what you do and why you do it, especially when it comes to life’s work? At times, those questions come to my mind; they must be obvious questions everyone asks at some point. It’s a given that we all must find a way to earn an income to provide for our families and ourselves. Some are fortunate and find their “dream job,” but others may have to take any position to make ends meet. So, would you consider what you do (or, as a retiree, did) as a job, a career, or a vocation (perhaps a mix, in some lines of work)?
It’s important to understand the differences between a job and a career. A job usually refers to a “piece of work” that is done daily, where the worker moves from one job to another. A career, however, refers to a series of positions within a particular field, where a person is trained and develops their skills over time. A vocation, on the other hand, is meaningful work through which God uses us to serve others.
How would you describe your life’s work: A job? Or a career? Or a vocation? Most likely, I would say those who work/volunteer in the Church consider their roles to be vocations. With the numerous dedicated volunteers, especially at St. Therese, the answer would surely be vocation. As an Evangelical Charity Director (a Christian Service role), mine certainly is–a vocation in which I encourage others to serve God’s people through charitable service.
When someone asks me if I’m currently working, my response is “Yes,” but what about when I’m asked what my job is? It would be interesting to see what kind of response I would get if I said, “You mean my vocation, where my role is to serve the Catholic Church.” Some people would find this to be a slightly odd answer.
Nonetheless, the Church is my life’s mission. I am thankful for the gifts and skills God has given me, each allowing me to positively impact people’s lives in both the workplace and the community. I feel called to serve the Church in this capacity, and I encourage you to consider sharing your time and talents by volunteering in the various ministries and organizations of the parish. Working in the vineyard of the Lord can bring true joy and satisfaction. Ultimately, as St. Paul tells us in Colossians 3:23-24,
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Let us continually offer everything we do to the glory and honor of God, regardless of the label we use.