A while back, I wrote an article about Microevangalization: that is, sharing the Good News in small ways as often as possible.
So, imagine my surprise when I read this part of a Yahoo article called “What Does Your Desk Say About You?” listing different items and their impressions:
Rosary or hamsa:Third-rail alert! Religious icons can be the fastest way to alienate a colleague. Same goes for political paraphernalia. Treat your workspace like Thanksgiving dinner — ideology-free.
Rosary hanging from desk lamp by theroamincatholic
Ouch. I’ll admit I don’t have a rosary hanging at my desk, but I have a prayer card in my line of sight. It’s one of St. Louis de Montfort and Mary that I used during my 33-day Total Consecration prep and I left it up by the Miraculous Medal that hangs out on my keyboard. I have a parish bumper sticker on my car, and a scripture related tattoo. My desk calender is all doodled up with youth ministry notes, young adult events, and blog post reminders. So really, there’s no hiding my religiousness. Does that mean I alienate people? This article seems to think so.
Maybe the article’s intention wasn’t explicitly so, but if those small (yet incredibly meaningful) items can cause a negative impression in the workplace, it certainly seems any items of equal devout significance can, too.
What’s a modern day apostle to do? I’ve come to two conclusions:
1. Be cautious to those around you’s personal space. Basically, know when your message is not welcome as common sense dictates. Often the most effective way to evangelize isn’t by what we tell other people anyway; it’s what they observe in our character.
Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.St. Francis of Assisi
So every one who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven.Mt 10:32