Hello Gloria Dei,
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).
Happy Labor Day weekend everyone. Way back in 1894, Congress passed a bill recognizing the first Monday of September as Labor Day and made it a federal holiday. Its intention was to celebrate the contributions and achievements of American labor. Workers were given a day off from their work.
Our labor is important. It is good to recognize, celebrate, and give thanks for it. Yet, as we move toward Labor Day weekend, I want you to think not just of your job, but rather, of your vocation. Romans 8:28 uses the phrase “Those who are called.” Another word for vocation is “calling.” Have you ever thought of yourself as being “called”? You are. The God who has saved you, now calls you. The Good Shepherd speaks, and having been made his follower, you recognize his voice.
Think of the different roles you play in your family. Are you a brother or a sister? An aunt or uncle? A mother or father, grandparent, spouse, son or daughter? How about at work? What roles do you play there? What is your role in the community as a citizen? How about within your church family? Your vocation and calling as a person of God encompasses your whole life.
I love what we say as we celebrate the newly baptized. We recite Jesus’ words from Matthew chapter 5: “Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” As people forgiven and saved by the cross of Christ, we quite naturally love our neighbors, all the while, giving glory to God.
This Labor Day, give thanks to God for your calling… your vocation. Simply put, in all you do, give glory to God and celebrate the reality that you have been made a child of God.
See you in worship,
Pastor Tim
