For many that have yet to retire comfortably, the workplace is where one spends most of their time day in and day out. With a large part of your day spent at work, you also invest immense effort and emotional energy into your job.
Do you enjoy going to work daily? Or is your workplace more like a battleground of intense competition, stress and dissatisfaction? We juggle myriad tasks, responsibilities, and relationships that shape our professional lives. Amidst these tasks, how often do we invite Jesus into this arena of our lives? How frequently do we embody His teachings in our interactions with colleagues, or when faced with challenging decisions?
Whether it is an office, a store, or a worksite, every conducive workplace must be made up of a community of individuals working towards common goals. It is in these communities where we can really bring the teachings of Jesus to life.
Integrity at Work
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his way crooked will be found out,” – Proverbs 10:9
It is so easy to take the easy way out when it comes to tasks at work, and unfortunately, many eventually succumb to the temptation. But as a soldier of Christ, you are called to rise to the occasion and develop an unparalleled work ethic.
Do not think that your efforts are meaningless or that all the hard work you put in only “benefits the people at the top”. Whether or not this line of thinking is true, it will not work any favors for you and will only lead to resentment. As we strive to align our actions with God’s virtues, we not only contribute to a healthy work environment but we are also glorifying God in our actions. No matter how small the role may be, God sees and knows the work that you have done.
Take heart and do not despair, even if you work goes unseen, for your ultimate reward shall be in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Pray for Colleagues That Give You a Hard Time
Office politics can be really draining and create unnecessary stress at the workplace. When you encounter resentment or any negative energies from a co-worker, is your response also negative towards them?
Remember that Christ never teaches us to fight fire with fire, but rather to overcome negativity with love and compassion. Instead of harboring anger, why not turn to our ever powerful Father seeking his wisdom and graces? Never underestimate the power of prayer at the workplace.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” – Matthew 5:44
This can be a hard pill to swallow at first, but think about it this way. People that give you a hard time at the workplace are often bitter because of an underlying issue that is taking control of their lives. These people are hurt and suffering with an unmet need in their lives.
Pray to God for the to touch their hearts and give them the grace to be to more open-minded to new ideas and collaboration. Do not look at your colleagues as competitors or obstacles, but instead the creations of God that are at times, imperfect.
Prayer for Workplace Harmony
St. Joseph, pray for us, as we seek to bring the teachings of Christ into our workplaces.
We ask for your intercession, that our offices and places of work may be sanctified by God’s presence.
As we navigate our professional journeys may we treat our colleagues with kindness and respect, remembering that they too are children of God.
Help us to embody the virtues of honesty, integrity, and diligence, using our talents and skills to serve not only our personal ambitions but also God’s greater plan.
May our work not be a source of discord, but rather a platform for us to express our love for God and for our neighbors.
Teach us to seek success not in worldly terms, but in the eyes of God.
Let us know what truly matters is not the praise of men, but the approval of our Heavenly Father.
And as we face challenges and obstacles, may we remember to turn to God asking for His guidance and placing our trust in His perfect plan.
St. Joseph, pray for us, that we might honor God in all our endeavors. Amen🙏
