Living the Full Life

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. ~ Colossians 3:23

In the book Humanocracy, authors Gary Hamel and Michele Zanini argue that our organizations are structured around a hierarchy that begins at a foundational level of "obedience" and extends upward towards the highest level of "daring" -- with each new tier dependent on how well the people within the organization are treated:

According to Hamel and Zanini, the higher levels of "initiative," "creativity," and "daring" are only achieved when the people within the organization are engaged and passionate about their work: "These higher-order capabilities are the products of passion of a commitment to something that inspires, us, something outside ourselves that needs and deserves the best of who we are. Initiative, creativity, and valor can't be commanded. They are gifts. Every employee gets to decide, 'Do I bring these gifts to work today, or not?'"

Any daily tasks, including the spiritual disciplines that encourage our faith, can be considered through this lens: Are you resting in the basic lower levels of obedience and diligence, doing merely what is required of you, or are you bringing your best self, including your God-given gifts of initiative, creativity, and even daring?

As the authors remind us, we are most engaged when we are alert and inspired; but, sadly, most of us walk through our days merely diligent rather than fully present: "When we're in the thrall of a healthy passion, we experience a magical melding of effort and enjoyment. Formidable obstacles become intriguing puzzles, and minor wins, badges of accomplishment. We are most alive when we are doing something that enchants us," the authors write.

What daring new steps will you take today, walking up the tiers to full engagement as you seek to live a life worthy of the grace you have received?

Peace,

Jennie