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Presented by Lauren Stibgen
When you think of your work as your mission maybe this quote from Bob Goff will resonate with you, “It’s not mission work, it’s just Tuesday.” Seamlessly blending work and mission can help you wake up to say “it’s just Tuesday” like Tracy.
Tracy leads post-merger and acquisition business integration for a medical device manufacturing and distribution company. Her job is to bring people together under one unified company using the same tools and technologies. She states, “missional living is bringing his kingdom world to light in this world, through everyday acts and behaviors. It is starting my day and incorporating God’s mindset to whoever and whatever I do to serve him, not my own ego.” Tracy is truly a builder. The book of Nehemiah has a lot of meaning for her as he is a builder, and her work requires building or rebuilding in many different facets of the business. The joy of the Lord is my strength is a verse Tracy keeps close as she works to build the company and others each day.
A few years ago, Tracy didn’t depend on God for her work. When her pride was hit hard, working for a boss who didn’t believe in her, she realized how much she needed God to help her in a situation she couldn’t solve herself. Starting each day reading Scripture and praying helped Tracy change her own mindset about how she thought of work verses how she realized God wanted her to work.
Building this daily habit took time, but she couldn’t imagine a day without starting in his Word. It grounds her and directs her focus for the day as a leader.
Being focused on God’s word has helped Tracy to subtly weave God’s wisdom into her day to day. Often, she will use his Word in the coaching and encouragement she gives to her team and peers. They may not know it as a specific verse, but she is able to pour into people with God’s Word. Sometimes, Tracy will wear something with a bible verse on it to start conversation! It really is subtle, but it is her dedication to being in the Word that helps her keep this consistent in her leadership.
When peers have gone through serious professional and personal challenges, Tracy does share her faith. She has felt them welcome God’s Word and wisdom into some very difficult situations. Sharing her faith and specific ways she feels God can provide comfort, has also helped her develop deeper relationships at work.
This past year, several male leaders at Tracy’s company have had severe medical or other personal issues impact them or their families. She came alongside them as an encourager, intentionally checking in, telling them she is praying for them. It has been accepted with much gratitude. She feels like God has positioned her to be an encourager at work and enjoys leaning into this strength that she views as a gift from God. Sharing God at work can be subtle or more direct!