Avodah is derived from the root word, “abad” which appears in many Bible verses where its meaning is interchangeably used for worship, work, and service.

Let my people go, so they can worship (avad) me.

Exodus 8:1 (ESV)

Six days you shall work (avad), but on the seventh day, you shall rest.

Exodus 34:21 (NLT)

But as for me and my house, we will serve (avad) the Lord.

Joshua 24:15 (ESV)

The meaning of Avodah here suggests God's original intent for us, that we are made in His image and designed to live a seamless life of worship, work, and service.

In a biblical framework, worship and work are inextricably linked and not mutually exclusive. The Hebrews did not have a designated day of worship like Saturday or Sunday, but every day is an occasion, purpose, and time for worship. They did, however, keep the Sabbath day holy and rest on it. We are usually encouraged to have a "balanced life," in which we try to manage our choices, priorities, and energy. While the idea is appealing in theory, in practice we struggle to balance the demands of work, family life, and everything else. This frustrates us and if we are not careful the tyranny of the urgent can undermine our faith and, ultimately our spiritual walk.

A balanced life is similar to dieting in that it is something you try to keep for a week or so until it becomes too difficult to continue. An Avodah life, on the other hand, is a way of life that focuses on remaining whole and healthy all of the time, rather than just occasionally.

Consider these words of the Apostle Paul:

For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they are thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

Colossians 1:16-17 (MEV)

Paul emphasises Christ's supremacy in all domains and realms, and as such, all we do is totally connected to everything we are in Christ. In this regard, the Avodah life is purposefully integrated rather than incidental to who you are and what you have in Christ. Unless and until we make a paradigm shift and accept this truth, our work will impede our worship and service.

Imagine how your life would be different if your worship extends beyond Sunday and into the rest of the week. Imagine how might your life change if you entered your workplace as a worshipper rather than just a worker. Imagine the influence you can have when Jesus is at the centre of your being and what you present to the world.