In my last post I pointed out that spiritual formation is a gift of grace. And for us to mature requires that we live from the story of the crucified Christ. That’s not easy. We are surrounded by a choir of voices who sing endlessly to woo us away from the centrality of that narrative.

Our spiritual formation at work is also an invitation to participate. Remember, Jesus is renewing all things and invites us to join him in his mission. The Holy Spirit empowers us to see, experience and uncover signs of the kingdom right now, to pursue the common good and human flourishing, to step into brokenness at all levels with confidence that our work matters and has lasting impact.

But you may be thinking, “That seems lofty and a bit vague. How do I do that? Where do I begin?”

We look again to Jesus. Throughout scripture he was spoken of as a prophet, priest, and king.

PROPHETS weren’t fortune tellers or future predictors. They spoke the message of God to the people. Working as a prophet means we challenge the priorities of an organization, reveal God’s good intentions, and cast a compelling vision for a future. Prophets speak truthfully and hopefully about how things ought to be.

PRIESTS stood before God on behalf of the people. Working as a priest means we seek equality and security for the people we work with, work for, and serve. We are sensitive to the value and creativity of those around us and are willing to point out how things can be.

The best KINGS in scripture were obedient to God and accountable to Him. Their power was guided by truth, and they used their power to protect and preserve. Working as a king means we pursue integrity, working to bring congruence between our projected self and our true self, both corporately and individually.

We are formed in his image when we work from these distinct perspectives or imaginations. Now, this is not your “sign” to march into your CEO’s office with a list of grievances. (Please read that last sentence again.) Rather, this is an appeal for reflection.

Regardless of where you work, what you do, or how you got there, that’s where you are today. You bear the image of God. You are Christ’s ambassador. You are an outpost of the Kingdom. You are not just marking time until retirement.

Take some time today to consider the key questions for prophets, priests, and kings:

1. The prophetic question at work is: Where does my company or industry have the story wrong?

2. The priestly question at work is: Who is overlooked, missing, or marginalized in our workplace?

3. The kingly question at work is: Where are the gaps between what we say and what we do?

Then prayerfully consider how God uses these imaginations to shape you and bring good news to your workplace.