III. Why must we work?

Is work a necessary evil or a God-given right? Work occupies the majority of our waking hours and demands a substantial portion of our energy. This prompts the crucial question: Why is work a necessary aspect of our lives? Additionally, how do different perceptions of work influence our approach to it and its role in society.

26. Work is an exercise of the worker’s dignity.

27. Work is neither a job nor toil.

28. We need to work on something to exercise our dignity.

29. Work changes the worker, not only the world.

30. Workers are persons, not commodities.

31. Work changes society: social dimension.

32. Work is not a necessary evil, but a necessary good: a right.

33. Work is a duty.

34. Workers have a right to a decent salary.

35. Agreement is necessary but not sufficient for a fair salary.

36. Migrants should be treated as nationals.

37. Migrants have the right to reunite their families.

38. Women should work… because they are different.

39. Workers have the right to form unions.

40. Some strikes might be licit.

41. The purpose of business is the common good, not profit.

42. Business can and should be owned by the workers.

43. Competition can be constructive, not destructive.

44. Rest is a right, not a privilege.

45. Rest is an obligation, not just another option.

46. Rest can be a virtue.

47. Work is divine but rest is sacred.

48. Working we continue God’s creation.

49. Working we continue Christ’s redemption.

50. Working can be priestly, kingly and prophetic.

Viewing work as a necessary evil tends to reduce it to a mere tool for survival or an obligation imposed by societal norms. This perspective often leads to a perception of work as an onerous task, to be merely tolerated rather than actively embraced. Such a viewpoint can cultivate a cultural mindset where work is dissociated from personal satisfaction and societal contribution, leading to a diminished sense of purpose and fulfillment in one's professional life.

Conversely, considering work as a God-given right or an innate aspect of human life instills a sense of purpose and respect in labor. This viewpoint aligns work with personal development, social contribution, and spiritual enrichment. It posits that through work, individuals not only achieve their own potential but also actively contribute to the common good, discovering deeper meaning in their daily endeavors.

The implications of these contrasting perceptions are significant. They influence how individuals balance their professional and personal lives, make career decisions, and derive satisfaction from their work. Furthermore, these views shape societal attitudes toward labor, affecting how work is valued and integrated into the broader social fabric. In essence, our collective understanding of the nature of work has a profound impact on both individual well-being and the overall ethos of society regarding labor, productivity, and the meaning of work."

Work, far from being a necessary evil, is a fundamental good—a right and duty for all capable individuals. This perspective elevates work beyond mere survival or economic necessity, framing it as a pivotal means to foster the dignity of the human person. In this light, work is seen not just as a path to personal achievement, but as a cornerstone in building a family and contributing to the broader community.

The dignity of work, therefore, is not subordinate to profit or the economic needs of society, but rather to the dignity of the worker. This understanding provides a solid foundation for contemplating workers' rights and fostering a healthy work culture.

For Christians, this concept of work takes on an additional, spiritual dimension. Christians see themselves as children of a working Father, who sent His Son to labor for the salvation of humanity. This belief imbues work with a sacred purpose, transforming it into an act of participation in and contribution to God's salvific plan. Although the perfection of the world is beyond human capability, Christians are called to collaborate in God's work of salvation, making their labor not only a personal or social endeavor but also a spiritual duty.

Hence, in this Christian view, work transcends its earthly aspects, aligning the daily efforts of individuals with the divine purpose. It calls on Christians to view their professional and personal labors as integral to their faith, contributing not just to their individual growth or societal progress, but to the higher, spiritual objective of God’s plan for humanity.