A conversation posted on Christian Business Leaders Network at LinkedIn, provided a lively thread of comments and reactions. The provocative post titled, A Revival in the Business World, by blogger, Delight in Jesus, contained the quoted question, “What the hell does Christianity have to do with my business?” The question, not the answer, became the problem. One four letter word managed to usurp the conversation thread.
Perhaps the lesson of the day is not to get personally offended until you know what you’re offended at. For me, I’m more concerned about making an impact with my business and life than chastising someone for using a word everyone has most likely uttered at some point, if they’re honest.
Before you accuse me of supporting the use of profanity, allow me to emphasize how living life in Christ changes our perspective. I acknowledge the shortcomings of my humanity and all the accompanying frailties. I choose not to define my relationship with Christ based on an occasional slip up. As a professional and a Christian (yes it’s possible), I’m thankful for posts such as these and the business topics that connect both business and faith. They help me deal in a reality that is sometimes very difficult to navigate.
With that aside, I’d like to share my response to the post.
“Perhaps there are some examples of term “escapist pietism” in the comments and reactions posted here. Being easily offended can often sideline intention or resolution. Dig deeper into the article and you’ll find thought provoking statements that encourage a closer examination of what’s worked and what hasn’t in Christianity. In this case, I find the article and the question extremely relevant today. Allow me to expound.
First, I agree with the article’s premise as Christians we cannot be passive in defending or practicing our faith. But our defense must be actively present in how we live our lives, in other words what we do is more influential that what we say. Do I need to defend this with the names of former evangelists? I believe as individuals we forget our humanity and try to overcome more than we can handle. The result is legalism and judgment. If we follow Christ’s example, He started with a small group of men and allowed that circle of influence to affect many. Perhaps the lesson is start with one person in your own circle of influence and do for them what you could do for many. Watch it grow. By the way, Andy Stanley at North Point Community Church in Atlanta had a great perspective on this.
Secondly, the internet and social media have enlarged the information highway. It’s a global world we live in now. News we didn’t have access to five years ago has blown past us in ways the majority of people never imagined. However you choose to see it, YouTube, Google, Bing, FaceBook and countless others have provided platforms for anyone to post an opinion, good and bad. We now know about corrupt judges, politicians and business people. It seems to compile and grow daily contributing to public cynicism. So do you see this as opportunity to use your circle of influence with your business or personal life? I do. Start a revolution. Let people know what you’re doing to change your own circle and how you can help them. Jesus had 12 disciples and look what happened.
Third, as Christians we are called to obey the law. Unfortunately, labor law is part of this, however, I refer back to my first statement. Actions speak louder than words and allow opportunities to share; however, nothing negates our rights to change the law or vote for those in favor of minimizing restrictions impacting freedom of religion. We also cannot negate the freedoms this provides other religions, too. Perhaps the “actions louder than words” or “if everyone did for one what they wished they could do for many” statements have application here, too? Effective global ministries serve as great examples of actions and words – Samaritans Purse, InTouch, Joyce Meyer, etc.
Lastly, our witness is applicable to both believers and non-believers. Never have I found this to be truer than in the business world I’ve encountered as a startup. The tendency to form our religious cliques prevents effective witness to everyone. I’ve had doors shut completely to me by “Christian” businesses without the courtesy of being heard or follow-up to inquiry. In fact, I’ve been told if you’re not part of the “existing Christian network” it’s hard to break in. Seriously? If my secular career has taught me anything it’s this, business is an evolving environment, totally dependent on new ideas, thoughts, and experiences. As a Christian and professional, I’m open to hearing those things. It will either affirm my strategy and faith or challenge me to think outside the box and seek clarification from the Father.
My walk has not been easy and I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way, and I expect to make more in the future. What keeps me grounded is God’s grace, Word, and daily prayer. I am perfected in Christ but balancing my humanity with reality is something faith is for. All I can do is look up and trust God for my horizontal perspective. Only then can I change my circle of influence one person at a time, one day at a time. Thank you for letting me share.”
Being a Christian doesn’t make us better than anyone else; it just should make us more grateful for Who we have access to and why.