Sometimes we want to break out apprenticeship to Jesus into two class. The first class followers are the seminarians, pastors, and missionaries. The second class is everyone else. Those that consider themselves second class see those they consider to be first class as being more spiritually mature and doing more for the kingdom of God.

Unfortunately, it seems that sometimes this thinking can have the consequence of leading us to believe that if only we go to seminary, become a pastor or a missionary, then all of the other struggles in our life will come together. Our relationship with our husband or wife will be healed, we will be freed of our destructive behavior, and we will have a greater capacity for love. Maybe our longing for greater wholeness begins when we surrender our personal kingdoms to the will of our creator.

We also need to be reminded that all work that is consistent with God’s vision creates value and furthers the kingdom. It can be the humble work of a janitor, the creative contribution of an artist, or the advocacy of a lawyer or social worker. This work isn’t limited to that performed by clergy or missionaries.

Related: A talk from Nancy Ortberg on the gift of work.