A big theme within Concordia University has been “living uncommon,” but what does that mean? The definition of uncommon is something that “isn’t ordinarily found or experienced” (Merriam-Webster, 2019). There is no real definition for being a Christian social worker. You can quick search the words/ meanings and definitions separately, and while there are some overlaps of terms, it means something different for every person.
We can cite and share about the teachings and practices of social work. It is a helping profession, where we fight for service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence in the common world. Christianity is about believing in Christ and having a relationship with God. When we do this, we allow him to use us as a conduit for a purpose and share the teachings and practices of His unconditional love and sacrifice. This can be an uncommon relationship/experience for many. It can be difficult in this profession to do.
Being a Christian social worker is about understanding that two things can hold true at the same time. We can know the profound grace and mercy that God gives us every day and be overwhelmed and discouraged with the struggles of this common world we face. If you’re like me, I struggle with the paradox of both at times—oftentimes, in fact. It is knowing that despite our clients’ (and our own) worst days, despite failing systems, despite pure evil in this world, there is something beautiful and good that waits at the end of all of this.
It’s knowing we were born for this exact time and are equipped with His gifts, to make sure those around us are seen/heard/loved, as we encourage them to see the world the way we see it—in ways that aren’t ordinarily found or experienced in strategies/solutions/coping mechanisms of this world, but by the way God sees it for us. It’s by our actions, words, relationships with people that they will experience something uncommon, and this will ignite something in them.
There is a sacredness and peace that, even in our struggles, we are always known and loved. Does this mean that it’s hard? YES! Worth it? YES! What an honor to be a social worker, and a Christian one at that.
Amanda Hudson obtained her BSW from Minot State University in North Dakota where she worked in the profession for years. She’s currently pursing her MSW at Concordia University Wisconsin and will graduate Spring 2024. Amanda has learned to embrace whatever comes and that the best laid plans change. For now, she’s on taking some time to raise her three kids and finish up grad school.
May we all pursue being uncommon Christians in our lives and in our work as social workers!
Amen! Best of luck with your studies, Amanda.
This was beautifully written and is a very great motivation. I am starting my first day in the MSW program and I already feel the tension there is towards Christians. I know it was the Holy Spirit that showed me that and I know it was the Holy Spirit that guided me to Google christian social work, which led me to this blog and organization. I can’t tell you the sigh of relief I did when I found this. I know the journey is going to be hard. But I also know that God has equipped us for such a time as this. We just have to remember His truths to combat the often times convincing lies of the enemy and the lies of this world. Shalom sister, God Bless you. I pray the Lord guides you and keeps you and your family. And I pray that He may strengthen you to that much anticipated finish line. Keep looking at Him. Only at Him. And to all the Christian social workers out there, remain in Him. He has your back.
Nicole, I pray that God blesses you, that you feel His strength and presence while you study in an environment that teaches many things that are in total contrast to God’s Word in Jesus name amen.
As a Concordia alum and Christian Social Worker I appreciate your words. I feel seen.
I have just completed an over the phone interview to complete my degree in Social work. I’m nervous but very excited to be born for such a time as this, and learning that in all my ways acknowledging God is most important. God bless you all.
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.” Psalm 19:7-9, NKJV
Friends, please remember, we are a Christian first and a social worker second. You are a friend to a precious, omniscient Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, commit your way (at school and in your practice) to the Lord, and He will sustain you.
Dennis, Retired LCSW
Hello Fellow MSW Concordia Wisconsin/Ann Arbor 2024 graduate! Well written!! Thanks for sharing!