Working Well, Working for Love: The Sanctification of Work
The Christian Meaning of Work
The sanctification of work is central to St. Josemaría Escrivá’s message. But what does it truly mean to sanctify our work? It means transforming our daily tasks into an offering to God, aligning our efforts with His divine will, and viewing work as a vocation rather than just a necessity.
Many people work for different reasons—some out of financial obligation, others for career success. But as Christians, we are called to something greater: to see our work as a means to serve God and others. Pope Benedict XVI described work as a continuation of God’s creation, perfected through freedom, wisdom, and love. Jesus Himself, having worked as a carpenter in Nazareth, gave profound meaning to human labor.
Work as a Path to Holiness
For a Christian, work is not just a duty—it is a mission. It is where we grow in virtue, serve society, and fulfill our apostolic calling. St. Josemaría taught that work done with love becomes the “work of God.” By embracing effort and sacrifice, we turn work into prayer and an opportunity for sanctification.
Practical Ways to Sanctify Work
Offer Your Work to God Daily – Begin each task with the intention of serving God through it.
Seek Excellence – Work with diligence, honesty, and professionalism.
See Work as Service – Use your talents to help others and contribute to the common good.
Find God in the Ordinary – Recognize that daily labor is a path to holiness.
Work with Joy and Sacrifice – Understand that true joy comes from embracing effort with love.
Learning from the Holy Family
The book Working Well, Working for Love draws inspiration from the life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in Nazareth—a model of holiness in daily labor. Their example teaches us to transform ordinary work into a source of prayer and grace, offering it as a sacrifice that glorifies God and sanctifies the world.
By embracing this perspective, we make our work more than just a job—we make it an act of love that brings us closer to Christ.
