An orthopedic surgeon, a police chief, and a youth minister walk into a bar.  Yep, sounds like the start of a joke, but…. Whatever do these three professionals have in common, whatever might they talk about?

Well, for one thing, they might discuss a recent article published yesterday on Forbes.com.  These three professions, as different in compensation as they are in nature, were tied atop a list of most meaningful jobs. On first glance, it might be an awfully awkward conversation, but here’s counting on the youth minister to eventually guide the conversation regarding their metaphorical similarities. 

Working with the Broken –  Each profession is faced with addressing the broken within the systems – broken bones, broken laws, broken spirits.   There is a careful and through investigation demanded in each case, sometimes with the cooperation of “the client;” sometimes working around denial.  Each does not sit in judgment, but works towards healing solutions – for the individual, for society, for the Reign of God.

Setting Straight – There is a common motivation here.  Each has an overwhelming sense of responsibility not to sit idly by in a world of brokenness.  There is a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day when a personal accounting is taken and we each recognize our involvement in helping to set things straight – not out of a sense of self-righteousness, but out of a belief  in a greater righteousness than our own.

Rehabilitation – In this manner, ach is an agent of mercy here.  We recognize that there are not quick fixes to be had here.  We recognize that there is hard work involved in seeking healing and wholeness.  We recognize our role in cajoling others into healthiness.

You, an orthopedic surgeon, and a police chief walk into a bar. You all are representatives of professions deemed to be very meaningful by a credible business  magazine… Yet, are you ready, capable, and thoughtful enough to engage in a conversation about the meaning of your ministry, your mission, your work?

It might be easy to engage in the thought that our work, when frustrating or under-appreciated or just plain hard, seems meaningless. But, the stuff that keeps us engaged, enthusiastic, and empowered is when we find what we do to be meaning full. 1 Peter 3: 14 reminds us to not just wait for a mention in Forbes but to “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.”

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