Bring Christ to the Workplace
In this episode of "On the Mark," the Peter & Mark explore Pope Leo's general audience commentary from August 6, focusing on the theme of preparation. They discuss practical ways to prepare for evangelization at work, emphasizing the need for personal spiritual preparation and the importance of being in a state of grace.
Notes
- This episode continues a series discussing Pope Leo's general audience comments from Wednesday, August 6. Pope Leo's commentary begins with a focus on the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He highlights the importance of the word "prepare," which is central to understanding the disciples' actions in the Gospel of Mark 14:12, where they prepare for the Passover.
- The Pope emphasizes that love is a conscious choice and a decision that requires preparation, rather than a mere reaction or chance occurrence. This concept is applied to Christ's deliberate and free acceptance of His path to the passion. In a professional context, the notion of following a path chosen by God is discussed. The challenge is to discern this path and prepare oneself to follow it freely, rather than accepting it fatalistically.
- As lay professionals working in secular jobs, such as real estate or money management, the call is to prepare oneself to be an ambassador of the Gospel in the workplace. This involves maintaining a state of grace and making small acts of contrition throughout the day. God has orchestrated the workplaces and the people within them, expecting a harvest from lay professionals. The challenge is to use personal freedom to discern how to reach colleagues, whether through invitations to events or personal conversations during times of need.
- Mark shares an example about a woman returning to confession after thirty years, prompted by colleagues inviting her to church during Lent. This illustrates how seemingly small actions can lead to significant spiritual encounters. Another personal anecdote from Mark highlights the impact of a colleague's Lenten fasting on others, showing how living one's faith can inspire others without overt proselytizing.
- Effective evangelization often involves simple acts of friendship and support, rather than theological debates or formal teaching.
- The Eucharist, as mentioned by Pope Leo, extends beyond the altar into daily life, where everything can be an offering and an act of thanksgiving. To be effective evangelists, one must make room in their hearts for charity and love.
- Small acts of faith and gradual steps toward holiness are encouraged. Starting with manageable commitments, such as praying daily or attending Mass more frequently, can lead to deeper spiritual growth over time.
- The distinction between preparations and illusions is highlighted. Preparations guide and enable encounters, while illusions distract. To help others live fulfilled lives, one must make concrete preparations, such as praying for colleagues by name.
- Initiating the love of Christ in the workplace involves showing genuine interest in colleagues' lives and building camaraderie through simple interactions. Listening and being present can open doors to deeper relationships and spiritual conversations.
- The importance of consistency in prayer and action is stressed. By praying for colleagues and engaging with them authentically, lay professionals can bring Christ into the workplace, which is their unique mission field.