Monday; September 4

Have you ever asked yourself why you work?  I imagine that some people have this recurring conversation most Monday mornings, but on this “Labor Day” it is a good to reflect on the meaning of work. 
To establish the roots of labor, all we have to do is go back to man’s first sin when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden.  As God issued His decree He said, “Cursed is the ground because of you; in toil you will eat of it all the days of your life.  Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you; and you will eat the plants of the field; by the sweat of your face you will eat bread, till you return to the ground, because from it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”. (Genesis 3:17-19)  Throughout the years mankind has been compelled to work to provide for himself and his family because sin entered the world.  Yet, in a modern society, work is often more than laboring to provide food on the table – so why do we do the jobs we do?
There are a lot of reasons to work, but one of the most satisfying is to enhance the lives of others.  We serve one another by doing the jobs we do.  Sure, in professions like emergency services, the military and the medical industry this reasoning is obvious, but many other vocations serve their fellowman as well.  I am personally thankful for those who pick up my trash and fix my plumbing.  I feel better knowing that the mechanic down at the local Buick garage services Jeane’s car and has made it safe.  I breathe easier because I know there are air traffic controllers monitoring the skies and guidance counselors keeping an eye on our adolescents.
I hope a lot of you get a chance to rest and rejuvenate today, but as you prepare to head back to work on Tuesday try to take a little extra pride in your labor.  People are thankful for the work you do and appreciate how well you do it.
          Think About It!

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