Labor Day Top Ten
This Labor Day, I’m joining the ranks of those who are traveling and vacationing. I’ll be heading up to Minnesota with Sarah and our daughter, newly arrived from Spain, to visit our son who goes to school there in the land of 10,000 lakes. It will be the first time our little family has been all together in the same place in nearly two years. We’re all so excited!
This holiday trip is a little unusual for us. Typically, we stay around Chicago and stick with our regular responsibilities over Labor Day weekend. I confess that I’ve had a little envy over the years towards those who get to celebrate “the official end of summer” at a cottage or a campout. If that describes you this year, or if your current amount of “labor” responsibility has you anxious, don’t despair. There’s a lot of goodness built into this weekend, whether you are staying out or going away. Over the years, I’ve compiled the following list of “Top Ten” Biblical thoughts on the topic of work and labor. As Americans, we can begin by being thankful to be citizens of a country that recognizes the basic dignity of human work. But, the Scriptures take us to these more foundational truths:
- From the first words of Scripture, God is at work.
- While God went first, we go second! God created the heavens and the earth, but he also made humans in his own image and designed us to work even in the perfect Garden of Eden.
- In a fallen, broken world, we are tempted to pervert work into an opportunity to earn our place and reputation. Even the greatest, most excellent accomplishments will never suffice or ultimately satisfy, however.
- Only Jesus has accomplished the eternally significant work of a complete, sinless, righteous life. Only Jesus can accomplish this necessary work.
- Jesus freely shares his work, and the benefits of his work, with us.
- God never stops working to redeem us. Indeed, God never slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:3-4)
- Our present labors, paid or unpaid, are a leading way for us to make an offering of gratitude to God. Work can demonstrate how thankful our hearts truly are.
- Our works don’t earn us any bonus points with God, but are often used by God to do great good in his Kingdom.
- Jesus invites us into a rhythm of work and rest. Every Sunday is a Sabbath to help us remember that God can handle all the necessary labor, and we can fully depend on him.
- Jesus calls us to follow him with these beautiful words: Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. – Matthew 11:28-30 KJV
I sincerely hope that you experience true rest for your body and soul this Labor Day weekend!
We were made for work, yes! And we were made to rest in Jesus. Grace to you,
– Pastor Gregg