Well, it’s been a great week-end. In addition to the race and the celebrations, it has been a time to spend with family and to catch up on some much needed relaxation. But tomorrow, it’s back to work. It’s amazing to me how quickly one can get out of the rhythm of work and how easily I can slip into a mode of enjoying my free time. Of course, that doesn’t pay the bills, does it?
So, Tuesday will start the return to work. A time when those of us who work for a living will have to dial up our focus and commitment to providing excellence in our usual vocations and ministries. Admittedly, I sometimes think about what it would be like to retire – but the jury is out as far as I am concerned. I would enjoy more free time, but I think it would get very old very quickly and I would be kicking myself for not staying busy. At the other end of the spectrum, I greatly enjoy the company of the people I work with and I believe that I add value to the lives of the people around me.
I don’t mean for that to sound arrogant or one-sided; I also gain a great deal of value from the people who speak into my life as well. It causes me to stay sharp and I really believe that it is up to those among us who are a little older to be mentors and teachers to the younger generations coming up. We can teach them, mainly through example, how to honor God with your work and help them along the path of leadership to become even more effective in their own work lives.
All of this really depends on who you work for. Because those of us who are dedicated followers of Jesus believe that we don’t work for a human employer – rather, we work for God. The verse for this evening is from Col. 3:23-24, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” My encouragement this evening is that you work for the greatest boss in the world. And my prayer is that you will honor those who need your help and assistance, being an ambassador for the Kingdom in the process! Have a great day in the Lord, grace and peace…