The Three Bricklayers: Finding Purpose in Our Roles
After the Great Fire of 1666, which devastated London, the renowned architect Christopher Wren was commissioned to rebuild St. Paul's Cathedral. In 1671, Christopher Wren observed three bricklayers on a scaffold and inquired, "What are you doing?"
The first bricklayer replied, “I’m a bricklayer. I’m working hard laying bricks to feed my family.” This individual shows up each day to work because it’s his job. He clocks in and clocks out, focusing solely on completing his tasks without considering the broader impact of his work. While there’s nothing wrong with working to provide for one’s family, viewing work solely through this lens can limit understanding of one’s true impact.
The second bricklayer said, “I’m a builder. I’m building a wall.” This person takes the role of a bricklayer more seriously, seeing it as his career. He aims to master his craft, understanding that each brick laid contributes to building a sturdy wall. Although closer to recognizing the importance of his work, he still misses the full scope of his contribution.
The third bricklayer declared, “I’m a cathedral builder. I’m building a great cathedral for The Almighty.” This individual shows up every day with a calling and a purpose. He comprehends the bigger picture, recognizing that each brick contributes to the construction of a magnificent cathedral, a testament to a higher power. He works not for credit, but to serve a greater cause through his craft. We all are bricklayers in some way. Most people today aren’t literal bricklayers, but the principles remain the same across different jobs and roles.
We all are bricklayers
Most people today aren’t literal bricklayers, but the principles remain the same across different jobs and roles.
Consider a teacher’s perspective:
- “I’m a teacher. I’m just here to get paid and enjoy summers off.” This teacher sees their role merely as a means to an end, doing the minimum required and focusing mainly on personal benefits.
- “I’m an educator. I’m shaping minds and imparting knowledge.” This teacher is committed to the craft, striving to master teaching methods and contribute to their students’ intellectual growth, yet they may still focus predominantly on academic aspects.
- “I’m a mentor and a guide. I’m nurturing future leaders and contributing to a better society.” This teacher embraces a holistic view of their role, understanding the profound impact they have on shaping not just academic, but moral and social aspects of their students’ lives.
What sets the third person apart?
- Know your role: Understanding and identifying your role is crucial. Define what success looks like in your role and strive towards it.
- Higher purpose: Recognize that every role has intrinsic value, whether it’s immediately apparent or not. As said in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
- Give it your all: Be fully present and committed in your role, understanding that your efforts contribute to a larger purpose.
Applying These Principles in Our Lives
Start by identifying all the roles you play in life, from professional to personal. Define what success looks like for each and the purpose behind them. Imagine the positive changes in your life and the lives of those connected to you by embracing these principles.
Time to put rubber to the road, let’s do it and start laying bricks.