At the core of every follower of Jesus exists a priestly DNA, designed by God to be a prominent part of our self-identity. However, like a slow burning ember, our priestly nature risks remaining obscure and inconsequential unless fanned to life. This book was written to be that fan. Similar to H. C. Andersen's Ugly Duckling, many of us have been raised in a barn (metaphorically speaking), in that our priestly identity has been obscured and has been rarely (if ever) acknowledged, reinforced, or nurtured. Many of us readily embrace the temporary role identities bestowed on us by human society (like student, employee, spouse, parent, etc.), but hesitate to embrace the priestly role identity bestowed on us by God. This should not be. Our self-identity strongly influences our attitudes, behaviors, and choices. More importantly, it needs to change because God had something important in mind when he designed his people to be priests. We need to better understand what that means. This book was written to help you understand and embrace your priestly identity, particularly in the workplace and community. ""It not only helps me understand my identity in Christ in a secular world, it also gives me the healthy perspective to declare--to proclaim, as Scott puts it--the praises of God in my everyday existence."" --Lawrence Tong, International Director of OM ""This deeply thought-provoking work should stimulate many to embrace their priestly identity at work."" --Greg Livingstone, Founder, Frontiers ""This book packs a powerful wallop. It may be small, but the ideas and proposal it outlines are HUGE."" --Steven Bradbury, Director of the Micah 6:8 Centre ""This study is a thoroughly grounded, very practical introduction to our priestly vocation--equipping us to participate fully in God's mission in the world, and embrace the transformational role we are each called to play in our workplaces."" --Mathew Frost, former Chief Executive, Tearfund UK ""With clarity, wisdom, and grace, Scott plumbs the depths of this critical area and offers the reader a variety of practical handles on how to fulfill your priestly role in the modern marketplace."" --Daniel Meyer, Senior Pastor, Christ Church of Oak Brook, Illinois ""This book will paint a picture that will add strength to your self-identity, leading to purpose and fulfillment in your own life while becoming a blessing in your workplace."" --Jan Sturesson, Chairman of the International Christian Chamber of Commerce ""Thought provoking "" --Robert Sluka, Marine and Coastal Conservation Programme, A Rocha International Scott Breslin is the CEO of Operation Mercy, an international relief and development organization based in Sweden. He has worked as a project manager and senior training consultant with PwC, Honeywell Corporation, and other organizations in more than 20 countries in Europe, North America, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Scott holds a doctorate in education from the University of Edinburgh. He is married to Katarina and the father of four adult children.
