The Law of God and Public Policy
Work is not a curse, but a calling.
“And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, nor shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. You shall leave them for the poor and the sojourner: I am the LORD.” Leviticus 23.22
God created human beings to work (Gen 1:26-28; 2:15). Through their work men and women bring out the goodness and rich potential of God’s creation. We reflect the creative and fruitful character of God when we emulate His works in our own. Thus God is glorified by our work and we are enabled to meet our own needs and to share with our neighbors (cf. Eph. 4:28).
Work is inherent to being human and a source of dignity and fulfillment, inasmuch as it allows us to participate with God in His project of glorifying Himself and blessing humankind. All legitimate occupations and vocations share in this ability to glorify God and bless our fellow human beings. All work has the potential to further the Kingdom and economy of God, and thus no human being who is able should expect or be encouraged not to work. Instead, all must seek the work for which God has fitted them and take up that work for His glory (1 Cor. 10:31).
T. M. Moore
Visit our website, www.ailbe.org, and sign up to receive our thrice-weekly devotional, Crosfigell, featuring writers from the period of the Celtic Revival and T. M.’s reflections on Scripture and the Celtic Christian tradition. Does the Law of God still apply today? Order a copy of T. M.’s book, The Ground for Christian Ethics, and study the question for yourself.
