“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden…In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works, and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
-Matthew 5:14, 16
This summer, we’ve watched as alumni have moved all across the US—everywhere from Providence, RI to Los Angeles, CA. They’ve taken jobs as structural engineers, marketers, accountants, tree surgeons, teachers, pilots, business analyst, and the list goes on.
In cities and states across the US, they are going out, and taking the gospel with them. Through their hard work, and testimony of how they live their life, they are a light even in the midst of setting up spreadsheets, or determining how to make a machine more efficient.
Vocational missionaries do serve in unique ways, but these alumni are also serving God in what some would call “secular” work. They are meeting and working with people who might never set foot in a church, penetrating a workforce that is too large even for an army of missionaries, and most importantly, they are stepping into the role God has for them.
Like many of us, these alumni are called to serve God in the workforce. To use their unique gifts and talents whether they’re teaching in a classroom or piloting a helicopter. To reflect Christ as they interact with co-workers, serve clients and meet with managers.
Even as these alumni leave college, they are scattering across the US as God’s light bearers at department meetings, on phone calls with clients, and in on-the-job training. Sometimes they, and even we, need a reminder there is no secular vs. sacred work. All work is of eternal value when done as unto the Lord.
This is why we are working hard to find a mentor for each alumni, so they can have counsel and encouragement as they go out into the workplace. But also, someone who will help them grow in their walk with the Lord, so they can reflect His character in whatever vocation He has placed them.