Devotion - Monday, September 2

Today is Labor Day.  Clemson University does not observe this day, so you will be expected to go about your work as normal.  Your "work" is that of a student.  That is your "job".  The approach and attitude you take to your current job will set a pattern for how you approach future jobs.

I want to encourage you to understand your work as your witness to God.  I want to remind you that Jesus encouraged most of those whom he encountered to remain at their tasks; only a few did he encourage to drop what they were doing and take up the job of teaching others.

When he spoke to the tax collectors, he didn't tell them to find a different line of work.  He told them to do their work in a way that would reflect their desire to do God's will.

When asked by the rich young ruler what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus told him to use the fruits of his labors in caring for those whom God placed in his path.

Martin Luther made these instructions part of his move to reform the mindset of 14th century Christianity.  It isn't the priest or nun alone who serve God; all believers are equal members of the royal priesthood.

Among the regular readers of these offerings are those employed by banks, those serving as school teachers, a medical doctor, and an architect.  Over the years, each has responded with a story of witness - a story of how starting their day with God on their mind made their day an experience in mission.  I pray that these short lines continue to be the reminder that the work they do each day is their response to God's call.  It is their faithful response to God's grace.

On this Labor Day (and on all the days when we labor in God's vineyards) may we remember that it is carrying out our work that God is served and God is praised.  Our response to God on Sunday morning is celebration and encouragement of what happens in our lives for the remainder of the week.  

As you prepare for your life of labor - include among your preparation some time to reflect on how God will use you and use your work in building up the Kingdom.  Recognize in your ability to construct a circuit board the opportunity to make life better for God's children.  Give thanks to God for what you have been enabled to do; and prepare to return your thanks with the awareness that you serve God in faithfully carrying out your duties and tasks.