Is there a better way of framing Christian ‘productivity’?
I take Premier Christianity Magasine. Reading it this week, a quote resonated with me:
“Fruitfulness is something generative, not just productive or accumulative. Productivity relies on a narrow understanding of the human person and an anxiety about tangible results, which doesn’t allow for the generative.“
Are we better off thinking less in terms of productivity, and more in terms of fruitfulness? For example, clearing the inbox might be productive, but not necessarily fruitful. Of course, we all want to make the most of our time and energy for God. But, is the modernist view of productivity obscuring the more ancient perspective on fruitfulness?
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NRSV)
Let me know your thoughts.
Your brother, Malcolm
