The idea of how our ministry in the workplace resembles Old Testament priesthood came from Nicole, my praying friend in Kansas. I was intrigued and have dug around to discover some key roles of a priest, starting in Genesis 14 with the priest Melchizedek who anointed, prophesied over and blessed Abram – and all in two verses, the time and motion people would have loved him!
By the time we reach Deuteronomy (20:2), we see the priestly role being carried out in the workplace: "When you are about to go to into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army … "Do not be faint-hearted or afraid … For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you … to give you the victory." This is echoed as Joshua takes the Israelites over the Jordan and it is the priests who lead them around the city of Jericho, with the walls falling to the noise of trumpets (the sound of worship), not canon fire.
Now, you may have spotted that the Old Testament figures referred to above are priests and you are therefore quite right to query what any of this has to do with non ordained types in our workplaces. I would suggest that the answer is to be found in the Great High Priest, Jesus Christ, who didn't just perform the role of priest, but embodied it in His daily life and of course His death. As followers of Christ we are called to follow Him, carrying on His work in the power of the Holy Spirit. And His commissioning in Matthew 28 is for all of us and not just the " professionals".
Anointing is the act of consecration for a task so, in a modern work environment, this might include mentoring someone to prepare them better for their God given role in the workplace. And as I scan back to some of the key influencers in my life, I have to ask myself how intentional I am being in passing on the baton and being an encourager.
There's another ten point action plan!