Devotion - Monday, Sept 1

It is Labor Day. I needed to affirm that for all of my Clemson readers. On campus, this Monday is business as usual.

I don't mean that to be a cheap shot at the Administration. It is very difficult to cancel a day of classes when some classes only meet one day a week (Monday night) and to figure out a way for those in labs to make up their work and remain in sync with the other sections.

Of what concern is this to me, or to a "devotional" offering? You might ask. Isn't Labor Day a secular holiday, anyway?

One of heroes, who has retired from Clemson, is Bill Steirer. For years, Bill would show up for work wearing a big button on his lapel. It read, "On Assignment from God." He has obtained it through his work with the Ministry In Daily Life emphasis in the Synod. It was his way of reminding himself that his teaching was his calling, it was his contribution to the building up of the Kingdom.

In looking for contributions made to the Church through the Reformation, we should not overlook the changed attitude about daily work. It isn't only the priests and religious who serve God. Luther pointed out that God is equally honored by the milkmaid's work.

God has called His children to a variety of tasks, equipped them with differing abilities. Each serves, as their abilities dictate, the common good. Be that as secretary, janitor, engineer, teacher, or bus driver; God's will and God's work happens through our labors.

For many of you, your labor is your studies. Your task is to learn as much as you can, preparing yourself for the tasks you will later assume. I am sorry that you don't have a day to rest from your labors. I hope, at least, that you might realize the importance of your work and re-dedicate yourself to it.