Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NRSV
"I don't know where the time has gone." If you haven't said those words yourself, it's safe to say you've heard them from someone else–and recently. For the non-retired working, our days are filled with commutes, calls, emails, and other tasks, followed by the commute home. Before you know it, ten hours have passed. Things are no less busy for the active retired, except the days are spent with appointments, errands, and perhaps volunteer work. By the time Jeopardy comes on, we realize the day is almost over.
Whatever our situation, our jam-packed days are filled with things that are necessary and things that are not. Among the essentials are those things we do for God, taking spiritual care of ourselves and caring for others. The phone calls we make to check on the struggling friend, the visits to the hospital, sending cards of encouragement, helping those less fortunate–anything that reflects God's love. All those things we do in the service of Christ are not in vain but also for our gain. We are blessed both in this life and the next. The more we do, the greater the blessing.
Am I advocating we all quit our jobs and lead a monastic existence? Of course not; Christ isn't asking that of us. In another letter to another church, Paul says, "Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters, since you know that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you serve the Lord Christ." (Col 3:23-24) So, whatever those things are that fill our busy days, may we do them enthusiastically in the service of our Lord.
Lord, thank you for the days you give us. May we be mindful of each as a blessing from you. Bless us as we fill those days busy in your service. May everything we do, even those mundane and monotonous things, find new meaning in the spirit of your love. May all we do reflect glory. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
