Jewish and Early Christian thought took a positive view of work (unlike the Greeks).

By about AD500, the distorted idea that faith and work don't fit together was taking hold.

The period produced a flawed argument that work had less value in God's Kingdom than contemplation.

It is the German mystics who first push beyond the monastic understanding of vocation.

Luther elevated the status of everyday discipleship, including work.

Calvin constructively redefined Christian calling and vocation. But we have much to do.

The Church lagged behind industrialism's huge changes to work patterns and work environment.

Relevant modern vocation is the call to follow Jesus in work and in all else.