May 1 is celebrated as Labor Day or International Workers’ Day in many countries around the world. It is a day to commemorate the contributions of workers and to continue the fight for workers’ rights.
As a Christian, this day also presents an opportunity to reflect on the biblical perspective on work and labor. What are some things that we need to ponder?
First, work for the Lord.
Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
Paul emphasizes that work should not just be done for personal gain or to please human bosses, but as a way to serve the Lord. Our work can be a means of worshiping God, and we should strive to do it with excellence and diligence.
Second, remember to thank God for your work.
Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, “That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” This verse reminds us that work is a gift from God and should be valued as such.
Moreover, we should find satisfaction in our work and use our renumeration to fill our basic needs and also to enjoy life.
Third, be exemplary on how you work.
Proverbs 14:23 -says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” This verse emphasizes the importance of hard work and its connection to success. Christians should be an example on how to take action and work hard towards the betterment of the workplace.
Furthermore, when we work, we work like Jesus who came to serve and not to be served. This means that Christians should erase laziness in their vocabulary, and show others what it means to really work for the Lord.
Overall, Labor Day is an opportunity for Christians to reflect on the biblical perspective on work and labor. Work can be a means of worshiping God, fulfilling our basic needs, achieving success, and leading an exemplary life. Let us continue to serve the Lord and work like the Lord.
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications