In Search of Identity

There are at least two ways that a person of faith can describe themselves.

The first way is to say this: "I am a [lawyer/accountant/doctor/teacher/mother/etc]. When and if I have spare time, I am active in the following ministries at my church: ________________________ ."

The second way is to say this: "I am a follower of Jesus who takes part in His mission in the world by doing the following: ______________________. To support that ministry, I earn a living as a [lawyer/accountant/doctor/teacher/etc]."

There was a time when I thought that there was room for middle ground. That somehow by being a "good Christian" as one is engaged in a career/profession, such person is also fulfilling their role in the mission of Jesus. And it may be true that in some instances work/career and mission will overlap. But, over time, I'm becoming convinced that such a perspective can also be a dangerous rationalization.

I don't think that I've made it there yet, but I want to come to genuinely see myself in the second way.