My Work: Life as an ASL Volunteer

Everyone works; from the high school student working on a homework assignment to the congressman working to pass a national bill. But how does a Christian connect their extraordinary faith to their ordinary job? In this article series, we will learn about work from a variety of Christians in all stages of life.

This first installment is an interview with Robin Reid.

1. What does “work” look like in the context of your life stage/focus?

I entered [my current] career later than most because I was a stay-at-home mom and homeschooled my children for several years. In this phase of my life, work comprises working a full-time job, volunteering at church, serving with Christian organizations, and helping to take care of grandchildren.

 2. Why do you do what you do for a career/study focus?

I believe with all my heart that God has called me to do the work that I do. I work in Disability and Support Services as a profession as well as being an American Sign Language interpreter. I provide access for people who would otherwise not have access to opportunities in education, the Word of God, and healthcare.

3. When do you find your work to be the most challenging? During those times, what helps motivate you?

My work is never-ending. There are always battles to fight. I am motivated to continue because the battle is the Lord’s. He will prevail! My strength is truly in the Lord. I trust Him daily to give me the strength and wisdom to endure.

4. What is one thing you wish that others knew about the work that you do?

I wish people understood that American Sign Language is not English. American Sign Language is a language more akin to the Spanish language than English.

I wish people knew that we have people who attend church who don’t have access to the resources and sermons that we think all people should or do have. If churches provided universal design practices, all people would benefit. Something as simple as open captioning during the services could ensure that everyone gets the full message of the Word of God, which could influence where someone will spend eternity.

I am not aware of any church in the Indianapolis area that provides open captioning during the service at the church location. If people understood the importance of access to the Word of God—and that there are people in our community who don’t have that access—I think it would be a game-changer in the world we live in now and more importantly the impact that access has on a person’s eternity! It really is a life-or-death situation. 

5. Who do you look up to in your life as a model of one who does their God-given work to glorify the Lord? Why?

I really look up to my husband and my brother. Both have jobs that can be extremely stressful and demeaning at times. They have often been mistreated and marginalized, yet they remain steadfast, trusting in God They speak the truth when warranted and show humility through the process. They both have opportunities to share Christ in their work environment because of the light of Christ in them. I have seen God work mightily on their behalf.