When the Bible uses the word "slave," it means "employee" according to our language. God's Word commands us to obey our bosses with the reverence, awe, and sincerity we owe to Christ. This applies even to unreasonable employers. "You household slaves, obey your masters with all deference, not only the good and reasonable ones but even those who are harsh. When a man can suffer injustice and endure hardship through his awareness of God's presence, this is the work of grace in him" (1 Pt 2:18-19).

This amazing way of relating to bosses has a powerful evangelistic impact. "Slaves are to be submissive to their masters. They should try to please them in every way, not contradicting them nor stealing from them, but expressing a constant fidelity by their conduct, so as to adorn in every way possible the doctrine of God our Savior" (Ti 2:9-10).

Remember, we're not "working for perishable food but for food that remains unto life eternal" (Jn 6:27). If we're going to lead bosses and co-workers to the new, abundant, and eternal life with Jesus, we must work with and relate to others on the job in a different way. We "do not render service for appearance only and to please men, but do God's will" with our whole hearts (Eph 6:6). We give our "service willingly, doing it for the Lord rather than men" (Eph 6:7). Let's work so as to let God work through us. A few short years from now when everyone's retired, our workplace will have a reunion in heaven. May not one boss or co-worker be missing.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, March 31, 2016

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