A couple weeks ago, I was at a vocation conference for work. The above quote was mentioned in a breakout session. It was only said in passing. It wasn’t even the main point of the session and yet, it has stuck with me since then.
This view of vocation spoke deeply to my heart. So often vocation/calling/work can be stressful, especially for college students. I think that’s why I love this quote so much. It seemed to take the stress away.
It reminded me of why I do what I do. I love helping people get where they want to go. One of my strengths (thanks StrengthsFinder 2.0) is developer, which basically means that I see people’s potential and I want to help them grow.
As I pondered this new definition of vocation, I realized my developer strength is one of my “greatest joys” and is evident in every job that I have had. I’ve worked in the medical field, higher ed, a staffing office, and even an environmental company. Nothing seems to overlap in these areas, but they all carried the theme of my wanting to help people whether they be coworkers, patients, or students. I love walking life with people!
The Lord has gifted and equipped us in different ways to meet the world’s needs. “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints of the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” Ephesians 4:11-12.
How freeing to realize that maybe our greatest joys are God given. Maybe it’s ok to pursue a vocation in our deepest joys and using those skills/strengths to meet the “world’s needs.” Maybe we should be looking less at what we think we are supposed to be doing and more at what He is cultivating in us. Where do we find His joy in our life?
What is your greatest joy?
Adventures of a Single Pretzel 