Dorothy Sayers wrote that “the biblical doctrine of work is the gracious expression of creative energy of the Lord in the service of others to create shalom.” Work was established by God in creation and was part of God’s original design for humanity. One of the ways we best image our Creator is when we choose to do good work, well.

 

Although our work has been impacted by the fall and often brings hardship, pain, and toil, it is never in vain. Our work enables us to not only provide for ourselves and our families,  our labor also promotes the common good of our neighborhoods and city and helps the world flourish. In the words of Martin Luther, “God doesn’t need our good works, but our neighbor does.”

 

As we take up our work in God’s world, let us remember the encouragement of the Apostle Paul: “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.” (Colossians 3:23-24)