Worldview: Origins, Part 3

Let's review. So far, I espouse that the universe is purposeful and that humanity has worth because it was made in the image of its Creator (and I am following the Judeo-Christian tradition in doing so). I suggest that these two concepts are especially beneficial for a servant-leadership mindset.

Now for another thought on human origins: you were made to be productive.

That statement is not simply some line from a motivational seminar. It is the truth. Consider Genesis 1:28, which says "God blessed them: 'Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge! Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air, for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth'" (from The Message, which is a paraphrase - for a more literal translation, I recommend the English Standard Version).

A few observations:

• God blesses humanity with these instructions. They are not burdensome.
• No busywork here. God gives humanity the opportunity to be creative managers who prosper by reproducing and managing other created beings.

Blessed creative management was humanity's original leadership purpose. Though our modern world may be a far cry from the perfect garden of Genesis 1-2, we can still be blessed creative managers.

IDEA LEADERS: (1) Do you assign busywork to those you manage? Why? (2) How can you help those you lead feel creative, productive, and blessed? (3) What personal changes could you make to become more creative, productive, and blessed?

Art: "Adam Names the Animals," from The Aberdeen Bestiary.