Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on Tuesday, September 5, 1882.
For Christians, the celebration of the worker is something that the Bible clearly teaches. God intends for mankind to work and earn his way. The preacher of Ecclesiastes said, “Whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). In the New Testament, we are encouraged to work hard and enthusiastically for “whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23) There is always something to do when it comes to doing “church work”. There are light bulbs to change, trees to trim, siding to wash, and walls to paint. God has blessed us with a great air-conditioned building and fellowship hall and as good stewards of His blessings, it is up to all of us to take care of the physical things as well as the spiritual blessings found in Jesus Christ.
Many will spend the long weekend enjoying all types of leisure activities as they celebrate the last holiday weekend of the summer. Through the scriptures, we are continually encouraged to become more involved with both the spiritual and physical work of the church. Remember, we are all important, (1 Corinthians 12) and God has placed us in the church just where He wanted us to be. Let us continue to use our individual talents to build up God’s Kingdom here on the earth. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
Courtesy of Maud Church of Christ, Maud TX