Meaning of work

The meaning of work has to be discussed in the larger context of the meaning of life. Non-Christian views on the meaning of life may be crudely summarized as nihilistic (no meaning), scientific/biological, or humanist.

Christian views invariably are based on our relationship with God and there are various good summaries. Purpose Driven Life; Mark 12:29-31; Eccl 12:13b are all good summaries. I personally like the Shorter Catechism of Westminster, which asks "What is the chief end of man?" and responds with "To glorify God and to enjoy Him forever". This is a concise summary of the meaning of life.

The meaning of work then logically follows. Our group discussion question, especially in light of John 17:4, was:

• How does your work “glorify God” and help you “enjoy Him”?

The word "glorify" in the above implies worship. Work is worship. Rom 12:1, John 4:21, Col 3:17, 1 Cor 10:31 all affirm that. Furthermore, the Hebrew word "avodah" means both "work" and "worship". Benedictine monks lived their motto, "ora et labora", "pray and work".