An apology for something I’ve overemphasized for 10 years
I [Paul] strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. I want you to know how hard I am contending for you. (Colossians 1:29-2:1)
My friend Mike Sharrow and his team at C12 recently hosted a faith and work conference in South Africa when one of the participants shared something along these lines…
“There’s so much talk at faith and work events about chasing after the famous ‘well done, good and faithful servant’ blessing from the parable of the talents. But I seriously doubt those are going to be the first words we hear from God in heaven. I think the first thing he’s going to say to his adopted children is ‘welcome home.’”
Based on what we know of the character of God, I think that’s exactly right (see Luke 15:11-20).
So much of my content is aimed at inspiring you “to do your most exceptional work for the glory of God and the good of others,” and I stand by that charge. But I also apologize for any part I’ve played in causing you to forget this: You are a son of God before you’re a servant of God, a daughter before a doer, a child before a co-worker with an eternal seat with the King at his table regardless of how much you accomplish for his kingdom.
And ironically it’s that assurance that leads us to do the most for him. Because working in a wild goose chase to find your identity is exhausting. But working in response to an unshakeable identity is intoxicating.
I think Paul understood this deeply. In today’s passage, Paul wrote about how hard he worked for his God and Lord. But that came after he wrote about his God and Father who has given his adopted children an “inheritance” and “brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves” (see Colossians 1:12-14).
So yes, “strenuously contend” in the work you are doing for God today and chase after “well done, good and faithful servant.” But I pray you’ll take time to hear “welcome home” first, focusing on your inheritance before your instructions—your adoption before your assignment.
What can this look like practically? Try something I’ve been doing lately: Take a walk alone with your Heavenly Father today. No phone. No people. Just you and God. And don’t ask for productivity, just his presence.
Tim Keller once described spiritual death as “when we don’t know God as Father but only as boss.” So run home to your Father in prayer today. And may his presence compel you to work from love rather than for it.
