Long Obedience…
VAST Power Systems
Gary Ginter was a highly successful executive in the high-stakes world of futures and options trading. He and his wife, Joanna, chose a life of “downward mobility,” giving away much of their wealth and living and worshiping in inner-city Chicago. For the past 25 years, Gary has been running VAST Power Systems, a struggling start-up. It’s been a journey that has both deeply tested and strengthened their faith.
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Guided Reflection
Reflecting on the Story
- How would you describe the Ginters’ view of success? Do you agree with their perspective?
- Gary feels God’s call to continue his work with VAST, recognizing that it may fail. How would you describe his emotional state in the midst of this uncertainty?
Connecting to your Work
- How would you define success in your work?
- If some aspect of your work “goes up in smoke,” would you be able to view that work as a sacrifice to God? What would it depend on?
Personal Application
- The Ginters have given a significant amount of money away. But they are more concerned with giving of themselves – their time and effort. How are you giving in these ways?
- Josh Kwan’s “Roles of the Redemptive Entrepreneur: Anthropologist, Custodian, Prophet” from The Praxis Journal
Lord, help me to be faithful in every aspect of my work. Even if it is not successful by the world’s standards, I pray that you would be pleased with my work. Whether or not I accomplish what I set out to accomplish, help me to be obedient to you in every detail. May I desire to do your will more than I desire financial gain, a good reputation, or a position of power. May you be glorified in my work. Amen.