Thursday; September 14

I cannot imagine what it would be like to be a slave.  Most of us have grown up in a time when improving human rights has been at the forefront of the national (and international) debate.  No, we haven’t always gotten it right, but we are making progress from the days of yore when slavery wasn’t just allowed, it was advocated as a valid economic system.  This mindset existed well before our nation’s birth – in fact, it has been a part of the world since the first day one man exerted power over another. 
The reason for this observation is not to discuss the pros and cons of slavery, rather it will be used to serve as the background for the value of Christianity.  You see, service to God transcends all times and all economies.  It is something that is just as valuable to the 1st Century slave as it is to the 21st Century entrepreneur.   When the Apostle Paul counseled the slaves of his day he reminded them of their responsibility to live a righteous life when he wrote, “Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.”. (Colossians 3:22-24)  As I read this admonition it challenged me that, if a slave can find meaning in their work, I should do all I do with purpose.  If a slave is compelled to do a good job with a positive attitude, I have no excuse for being grouchy or difficult.  Simply, I don’t work for “the man”, I labor for “The Lord”!
I am so thankful that the Bible provides guidance for our lives.  Without its message we can be miserable but, through it, we have access to a feeling of joy and fulfillment that makes this life worth living.
Think about it!

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