I decided a few years ago that I would do all that I could to show God’s love to those I work with.  This might not sound like a surprise to you, but there was a serious change that occurred.  For some time before this decision, I was more committed to telling my co-workers about God’s love than really showing it.  My efforts were mixed at best, and probably alienated others at worst.

These days I go out of my way to listen to the lives of those around me.  To value them. To encourage them. To point them toward hope and toward the future.  I desperately try to honor the absent.  To squelch gossip. To praise publicly and privately.  To criticize humbly, gently, and very privately. I don’t do all of these perfectly. But I believe my efforts are seen and stand out as unique among my workplace.  I believe this is what it means when Jesus said we were to be “salt and light” in our world. 

I rarely bring up topics of faith in the conversations that happen at work, but I find they are raised around me voluntarily.  I believe this is a direct connection to the way I live and act. My actions speak clearly and effectively where my words too often failed before.

Nancy Ortberg, the wife of one of my favorite authors, John Ortberg, recently gave a talk on displaying Jesus’ love and character qualities in the workplace.  It contains some brilliant examples of humble, effective leadership that are well worth the investment of your time.  I was challenged, and think you will be as well.

Listen or watch online here: March 4, 2007 - Nancy Ortberg - “Jesus and Your Job.”

Filed under: Leadership, Faith