Tokens is a theological variety show. Host Lee Camp is a cross between John Howard Yoder and Garrison Keillor. And the theological theme of the show in June--"Working on a Building"--was work.
As a part of the show Lee was interviewing David Miller, author of God at Work. David has done a lot of work reflecting on the intersections between work, mission and Christian vocation. David's take home point was that work, all work, should be viewed as mission and vocation.
But what I found most interesting in David's interview was something else. Specifically, David noted that not all work is bliss. Some work environments are toxic, abusive, dysfunctional and oppressive. What does mission look like in those workplaces?
David shared that he had worked in some pretty abusive work environments and his mission in those workplaces, as he came to understand it, was to provide protection for others. In abusive and toxic work environments we can shield, protect, and provide safe havens for co-workers. Maybe it's because you have a certain scope of power and can use that power humanely and restoratively. Maybe it's simply that you are a healing and welcoming presence at the watercooler. Regardless, your mission in that toxic work environment is to be a haven of protection and healing.
Many of you are doing exactly that today. Work sucks. It's a toxic place. The boss is abusive, a petty tyrant. But for as long as you are there in that place you spread your wings and protect those around you.
And for doing that for others I want to honor you today.
Fight that good fight my sisters and brothers.
