In the Robert Bolt's drama, "A Man for All Seasons", Sir Thomas More returns home to Chelsea from a prestigious meeting with the Cardinal at Hampton Court. Richard Rich, a young man who has been hounding More for a position on the High Court, is waiting for him.

"Have you been here all night?" Sir Thomas asks. "Yes." Richard replies, "You said you had a post for me." "Oh yes. I'll offer you a post with a house, a servant and fifty pounds a year at the new school."

Richard is obviously disappointed. "A teacher?"

"Why not be a teacher?" Thomas inquires. It is obvious that Richard's aspirations are to grander positions. "I can give you a post," More concedes, "but not to a place of court. A man should go where he will not be tempted. Richard, be a teacher. You would be a fine teacher. Perhaps a great one."

"If I was, who would know it?" Richard asks.

"You.", More declares, "Your pupils. Your friends. God. Not a bad public that."

Sometimes our own ambitions betray our true usefulness. The Peter Principle, named after Lawrence Peter, supposes that people are often promoted to the level of incompetence. The Christian 'work ethic' demands that we take stock of our God-given gifts, talents and opportunities to provide a good service to society. Our work is to be considered a high and holy calling. We should aspire to use our gifts in a suitable profession where we can honor God who has uniquely endowed us with our own particular temperament, abilities and interests. We should serve in a manner where we are least likely to sin.

A true understanding of the holiness of our 'vocation', (that is, our particular job, profession, or calling) can keep us from the moral pitfalls and corruption that plague our society.

Those who are familiar with our strengths and weaknesses can offer objective counsel as to how we can best serve God and others.

True greatness is not judged by public recognition. True greatness is found when we are faithful to God's call. Who will know it? You will. Your friends. Those you serve. God.

(Ephesians 6:7, Colossians 2:24).