The most famous sermon ever preached was not given in a sanctuary live-streamed for all to see. Nor was it given at a revival on a big stage in front of television cameras. It was preached thousands of years ago by Jesus on the side of a mountain shortly following his baptism.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus flipped convention on its head, as He often did, promising blessing after blessing for the downtrodden. Promising that in the most challenging days of our lives, He sees us and holds us and loves us.
Isn’t that a timely promise? As leaders… as humans… nearly every day of this past year has brought significant challenges. We are tired from navigating a pandemic. We’re tired from supply chain breakdowns and rising inflation. We’re tired from being chronically short-staffed during this “great resignation.” And we’re tired from every other challenge life has thrown our way.
In the midst of our weariness, Jesus sees us, holds us and loves us. And he calls us to do the same in our workplaces and our industries.
In Matthew 5, He says we are “the light of the world.” We, his image bearers, hold the significant responsibility of loving our neighbors – friend and foe – in ways that point everyone back to the grace-filled love of Jesus Christ. We are called to illuminate the world with the sacrificial, all-consuming, redemptive love of Jesus.
As a Christ-filled leader in your workplace, there is no one more equipped for this work than you. It is more important than the acquisition your company is making. It is more important than the annual plan you need to deliver for your board’s signoff. It is more important than the five crises that will cross your desk today. You are the light of the world.
As you lean into Jesus this week, know that He has called you to a life of influence. He has called you to illuminate the darkness. He has called you to let your light shine before others, proclaiming Christ through your actions and words.
Are you ready for the life-changing work ahead of us as we illuminate our workplaces together?
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
If you have not already registered for Convene 2022, hosted in Ojai, California from May 4-6, make this your opportunity to do so. Leaders and luminaries spanning industries and expertise will help you recharge your leadership, refocus on your priorities and reconnect to your mission of serving your workplace for the kingdom of Christ.