Read: Matthew 28:16-20
When I first started to think about this message of Holy Hustle, I tried to identify why I was struggling to reconcile work and rest. I love working and using my gifts, but I felt ashamed to admit it in faith-based circles. And rest? It doesn’t look like quiet rooms and candles and soft music for me, and I felt guilty when I tried to make it look that way and –inevitably –failed. I also knew that the hustle message I was reading from our culture –the climb over everyone, be the best, never stop version –wasn’t right either. Ultimately, holy hustle brought the two together for me, not only with God’s model in Genesis but with the reminders throughout Scripture that we are called to a life of faith in ACTION.
This very last section of the book of Matthew is called “The Great Commission.” After spending years traveling with Jesus, the disciples had recently witnessed His crucifixion –and now, resurrection. In Matthew 28:10 Jesus instructs the disciples to head to a mountain in Galilee, where He met with them.
After years serving, healing, ministering, and living alongside Jesus, I imagine they might have been wondering…..”Now what?” And so, Jesus assures them of His authority and instructs them to go and make disciples of nations (v19).
Go. Make. This is faith in action, working together to grow God’s Kingdom (for His glory, not our own).
Reflection Questions:
- When we consider the ways in which work and faith are connected, how do you feel?
- Are you relieved that you can work without shame as you honor God with your gifts, or do you feel overwhelmed – like you’ve just added more to your to-do list?
- Make a list of the people you interact with every day, week, and month. What are some practical ways that you can serve them, combining faith and work to honor The Great Commission?
