Every Job a Parable, by John Van Sloten

As a pastor, John Van Sloten has made it his mission to help lay people see the sacredness and service of their own work, whatever that may be.  In Every Job a Parable: What Walmart Greeters, Nurses, and Astronauts Tell Us about God, he helps readers "kindle a new kind of vocational imagination, to help you experience God at work more, and to help you read the parable that is your job."

Van Sloten doesn't just point out the obvious ways in which certain jobs help others, but points to the manifestation of Christ that we can show.  In the medical field, doctors, nurses, and other practitioners can be the healing hands of Jesus.  First responders give a very present help in time of need.

But beyond some of the obvious examples, as the title suggests, every job is a means to demonstrating and practicing love and service for God and for others.  Van Sloten writes, "You are not primarily what you accomplish at work, nor is your value based on the sum of your aptitudes and skills.  Who you are is defined by how you selflessly and humbly relate--how you give, how you receive, and how you image the giving and receiving God."

I really enjoyed Van Sloten's take on vocation.  Even when you're punching a clock at a dead-end job, let Van Sloten change your perspective and see how God can use you there.  It's a word that most people in today's economic milieu need to hear.


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!