Tim Tebow. Apparently he plays what the poor cousins over the pond in the U.S. refer to as ‘football’ (whose actual use of the foot with the ball is so minimal … but anyway, God still loves them). Not only does he play, but apparently he’s a Christian as well. And apparently the two are an issue. I was referred to this article to get an insight on the issue. I enjoyed reading it, that’s why I suggest you do the same.
What I got from it was an interesting challenge about how people would react to faith in the real world. Now the Tebow deal is taking place in a country that more or less still regards itself as Christian. I wonder what would happen if something similar happened to a ‘proper’ footballer (a lot easier than soccer player, I mean what are they soccerers?) over here? I wonder if such a thing would be considered as intriguingly as it is over there.
Beyond sports, I wonder how people respond when they recognise you as a person of Christian faith in the work place? Is it a cause for alienation as you are considered the ‘do-gooder’ and the ‘religious freak’ in the office? Is it just a title but in every other way you are a part of the social, cultural and political environment of the workplace?
By wondering, of course, that is not to suggest that I have no experience. Indeed my work history to date has been a range of experiences going across the scale from the ‘do-gooder’ to the chameleon who just fits in with everyone else. It remains easy to live on the extremes either seeing colleagues as the poor misguided ones who should be pitied or seeing mixing with them and doing what they do far more important than actually spoiling things slightly by talking about Jesus.
The role I had at the YMCA opened my eyes to the ease of fitting along the extremes and how being centred on Christ means you can walk a path of wisdom that never compromises your faith whilst still being winsome, friendly, engaging and real to those around you.
That time has helped me considerably in the current post I have and I trust it will further support me in whatever destinations my vocational journey will lead me. In the meantime it is worth considering again how does following Jesus make a difference to your conduct in the workplace? What does it mean to be a witness in what can often be a critical, harsh and cynical environment, or worse still, a ‘tolerant’, ‘liberal’ and relatively apathetic working condition?
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd
Life With CD 