Theology of Work 2.0: Part Two
In a recent post I suggested that we need to advance current conversations about theology of work. In that post I suggested that the advancement needs to go beyond the current focus on the worker.
Currently, the discussions go like this: “Do your work as unto the Lord.” “Be an example of Christ to your co-workers.” “Profitability is important, because by it you can support your family, provide jobs for others, and give back to the work of God,” and so on. And while these are important points, the conversation has gotten stuck in them and has yet to advance into the other important areas of theology of work. As a result, here is my contribution toward advancing the discussion.
The discussion should also focus on the product that the worker is producing. After all, the actual point of Gen 1:26–28 is not simply to get people busy! Rather, the point of Gen 1:26–28 is that the world needs to develop (“be subdued”). In other words, the plan of God involves us changing the world in ways that reflect God as its Owner.
The mission of Gen 1 has an objective—advancing the place of God from as it exists now to a better form of place. We measure success in this mission by measuring the “placiality” of the world, with greater locales and sense of place as the place that God created.
Workers, especially Christian workers and businesspeople, need to consider thoughtfully every aspect of their services or products. What are we producing, pondering how our products and services are changing the world as the place of God? And what are the implications of those products and services in the world—in our immediate neighborhood, in our state, in our country, and in the world—as applicable?
Sometimes, for example, the bottom line as the ultimate goal is not enough. Policies and laws need to reflect a benchmark in terms of a sense of place that aims to exude a fair and level playing field, that breads a habitus or atmosphere of opportunity for all—individually, culturally, nationally, and internationally (for the whole world is what God has in mind as the place of God).
Yes, we will never bring the New Jerusalem to earth before Christ’s return; only God will do that. Yes, we will never achieve utopia, because Satan and his team are actively working in the opposite direction. But the mission of Gen 1:26–28 (i.e., placemaking) still requires us to push the placiality forward.
So, yes, while theology of work needs workers who are busy little bees who emulate a good work ethic and are kind to their coworkers, we also need to pay attention to changes that we are making in the world itself. Is the world—as the place of God that God created and is returning to—being advanced placially as a place that reflects God?