Religion & Spirituality
Made for Mondays: Work and the Glory of God Sermon: Work and the Image of God Genesis 1:26-27 Sermon Summary The Big Idea of this study is that as image of God bearers we reflect God’s image in the way we work. We work to bring orderliness to creation and work is about service, love and worship. What it means to be made in the image of God has occupied theologians, both Jewish and Christian, since the beginning of time. It is probably best to think of a constellation of characteristics that humankind has in common with God. It also helps, I think, to remember that the basis of the similarities is so that God can share an eternal relationship with us. He made us to share in his presence forever. This week we are learning about the nature of God’s work in creation and how it sets the stage for how we are to work as his representatives. We stand between two worlds: the world of heaven and the physical realm. We represent to creation the nature of God and we present up to God the worship of his creation. As followers of Jesus, we worship and bring deserving praise to God while many of our fellow creatures refuse to acknowledge him. In some way we are carrying the responsibility of all of creation to honour their creator. We need to reframe how we view our work in light of how God worked in creation. Work is meaningful and satisfying when we view it as ordering, serving, and loving creation. It is an act of worship to our creator friend. Questions for Discussion: 1. Do you find Monday mornings difficult? Why or why not? 2. Discuss some of the ways humankind are different from the rest of creation. How might these differences fit us to spend eternity with God? 3. Discuss your occupation as an ordering activity. In what ways does chaos continue to encroach on creation? 4. Discuss this statement: Chaos or disorderliness is a sure sign that Satan is at work. 5. Is chaos in family life (over commitment, time pressure, etc.) God’s best for you? 6. Talk about your work as service, love and worship. How might that attitude toward work make your Mondays better?