Labor Gift

 

Labor Day is recognized as a day to rest for the American workforce.  For many, this weekend marks the end of summer and beginning of fall.  Enjoying those last few carefree days before fall sets in, Labor Day finds many folks at local beaches or heating up the grill for a barbecue.  For many, they see it as the ‘last hurrah’.  For my husband and me, we have spent the last few days on a home improvement project.  Nothing says Labor Day weekend more than home improvement!!   

As we worked, I noticed how hard my husband was working, sweat pouring down, but not stopping him from his goal.  He was focused on finishing the job at hand.  I realized that he has that same focus on all things work related – whether it is at home or his occupation.  He is very dedicated to everything he takes on.  When I asked him why he needs to work so hard and why can’t we find someone to help, his response is always, “I will do it for as long as I can do it.”  I remember my father saying the same thing.  The approach seems to be if God will afford him the opportunity to work, he will.

The way we approach work can certainly be a reflection on how we approach life.  We can do this thing called life for as long as God gifts it to us.  Whatever we do for a career, it is a gift.  Whatever we can do at home, it is a gift.  For ALL things are gifts from God – including work!  Being able to work is truly a gift.  We may not always seem that way, especially after a very difficult day, but our approach can make the difference.  I keep a Bible verse in my day timer at work – for those days that are very difficult!  Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”  By reflecting on that verse, I’m able to redirect my frustration, knowing that God gifted me this job and it is for Him that I work.

Our lives have become so busy with our ability to engage for work.  For many, work doesn’t end.  We are constantly checking emails, working through lunches, checking in during vacations, etc.  Labor Day reminds us that the gift of work also brings with it the gift of rest.  Remember, even God rested on the seventh day!  Which means we can all rest too!   Be grateful for the gift of work, whether the work is a job or a home improvement!!  Be grateful that work provides us to feed our families and pay the rent/mortgage.  Be grateful for what God has provided for you. 

Then, be grateful for the day of rest.  Relax and enjoy Labor Day, the Sabbath, and other days that are provided to you for rest.  Embrace the days of rest and know that when you get up the next day for work, the job is truly a gift from our Lord!

Heavenly Father, thank you for our Labor Gift!  As we embrace each day for work, may we remember that it was given to us by you!  May we work hard but help us also to relax and rest from our labor, as you did!  Amen!