The Sacred Space Between Doing and Being

Chaplain's Reflection on Occupation and Spiritual Calling

In my years of counseling military personnel, first responders, and individuals wrestling with life's deepest challenges, I've witnessed a universal struggle that transcends profession and circumstance. The occupation of the soul—how we become imprisoned by our daily routines, our perceived responsibilities, and our self-imposed limitations—is a profound spiritual crisis.

When we examine the biblical narrative of Jesus calling his first disciples, we're not just looking at a historical account. We're observing a profound spiritual intervention. These fishermen—Peter, Andrew, James, and John—represent every individual who has ever felt trapped by their circumstances, defined by their occupation, and disconnected from their deeper purpose.

In my office, I've heard countless variations of the same story. A soldier who can't see beyond the next mission. A first responder consumed by the weight of constant emergencies. A professional who has forgotten why they originally chose their path. Their occupation has become their prison, their identity reduced to a job description.

The spiritual danger here is not work itself. Work is noble, necessary. The danger lies in allowing work to occupy the sacred space meant for spiritual connection, personal growth, and meaningful relationships. We were created for more than survival—we were created for significance.

When individuals come to me feeling lost, overwhelmed, or spiritually depleted, I often ask: "What occupies your heart?" Not your time, not your schedule—but your heart. Where is your true attention? What narrative are you allowing to define you?

Jesus' call to those first disciples was not an interruption of their work, but an invitation to a larger purpose. He didn't condemn their profession but revealed that their true identity was not defined by their nets, but by their potential for transformation.

In my counseling, I've developed a simple framework I share with those struggling:

Recognize the difference between making a living and making a life
Create intentional spaces for spiritual reflection
Understand that your occupation is what you do, not who you are
Listen for the deeper call that transcends daily responsibilities
The most profound healing comes when individuals realize that they are not their job, their challenges, or their past. They are beloved beings with inherent worth, called to something greater than mere survival.

To those feeling trapped, overwhelmed, or disconnected: Your occupation does not define you. Your worth is not measured by productivity. Your spiritual journey is not on hold because you're busy. The invitation to a deeper life is always present, always extending, always waiting for you to respond.

In the sacred space between what you do and who you are, there lies an opportunity for true transformation.

Until next time

Chaplain Mark