Rethinking my Introduction

Scripture: Paul, an apostle—not from men or by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead. Galatians 1:1

Observation: The manner in which Paul introduces this letter - introduces himself as the author of this letter - is both simple but profound.  First, he is just "Paul, an apostle". His name and title are that simple ... a name, and a job. The job itself is without fanfare or classification. He is not 'the apostle to the gentiles' or 'the apostle he has taught at your church and feasts' or even 'the apostle who loves you as a father.' He is just 'an' apostle, one of the itinerant teachers whose task is to tell others the gospel of Jesus and start churches.

While he doesn't clarify the title, he then does clarify his ... employer. He is explicitly not employed by any person. He does not clarify his position through his commission from the head church in Jerusalem, or claim authority by way of James or Peter leading that church, or throw out references from others like Barnabas or Apollos. Instead, his employee is Jesus Christ and God the Father. His authority is by Christ's resurrection from the dead. Period.

Application: My professional introduction varies by situation, but may include words like "strategy lead" or "program director" or "public sector leader". It would always say I represent Microsoft, and may then clarify my division as Industry Solutions Delivery. In context, these can sound important and portray a need for others to give attention to what I say.

However, my very career is a blessing from the Lord. He has guided me in my work, and given me certain knowledge and skills beyond what I should be able to do, and certainly far beyond what I deserve. When I speak with learned understanding, that understanding itself comes from God. Caring enough to share it comes from my heart for others, which is a lesson I continue to learn from the Lord.

So what if I was just "an analyst - not from Microsoft, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead"? At the very least, within my heart, what if my words on every topic - from government data management, to digital services, to software integration - were commissioned by the love of God, with authority found in the truth about the risen Christ?

How could this attitude change my daily interactions with peers and customers? How could even just the inner movement of the Holy Spirit, opened up by this self-identity, create new conversations and opportunities for the Lord?

Prayer: Lord, I do know how you have worked in my professional life, and I am beyond grateful for your blessings, of which I am totally unworthy. May I find humility in Paul's example. I am insignificant, but the one I work for is everything, and it is in you, not my earthly title, where I find meaning. Amen.