In 1894 the federal holiday known as Labor Day was established to celebrate those who “labor” and is the official end of summer. On this day when many of us are able to rest and spend time with our families, it is a good opportunity to reflect on the Lord.
Genesis 2:1-3 CSB
[1] So the heavens and the earth and everything in them were completed. [2] On the seventh day God had completed his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. [3] God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, for on it he rested from all his work of creation.
Today as you rest, be reminded that our world, including humanity, is the result of God’s work. As Christians we practice a regular rhythm of weekly rest and worship of the one true God. But, on this Labor Day where we rest from our toil, we can rejoice in the rest that we have in Christ.
Ephesians 2:8-10 CSB
[8] For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift- [9] not from works, so that no one can boast. [10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.
Salvation is the result of God’s work not on our own. The work that Jesus has done in saving us was also for the work that He has prepared for us. So, on this Labor Day reflect on the truth that you are God’s workmanship and He has a good work prepared for you to do!
In Ephesians 4 we see the life God has called all of us to live; and this life is the embodiment of the good works God has purposed for in your salvation.
Ephesians 4:1-4,6 CSB
[1] Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to live worthy of the calling you have received, [2] with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, [3] making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope at your calling- [6] one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
You may not have to work today, but you are called to good works today… make today count by living worthy of the calling you have received. While with family and friends find ways to demonstrate God’s love to others.
God rested from creation, and you can rest from the vain effort of deserving salvation because of Christ. Instead of working to earn God’s favor you can dedicate today to doing the good works God has prepared for you by living out your faith in Christ!