Free

I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night comes, when no man can work. John 9:4

Living free of the constraints of a work schedule, demanding time frames, and the constant need of those around us to perform, is a goal for which many strive. Some folks call that a vacation or retirement. Others call it death.

I’m wondering if it is all it’s cracked up to be. Now don’t get me wrong! I think we all need a vacation now and again, and retirement looks pretty good when you’re approaching the end of your desire to contribute twelve to fourteen hours every day to some cause or another. But we must learn to find the freedom that comes when one’s work is one’s pleasure, and one’s pleasure does not diminish the multitude of responsibilities that we have assumed because of the choices we have made.

Some folks work to the exclusion of their families and friends. Some play to the same end. If you have chosen a wife or husband and family, a house and automobile. . .those kinds of things. . . then you must meet your responsibility to them.

I fear our society is moving toward a work ethic that is radically different from that of our fathers. Maybe we think there is little left to accomplish (you know, everything that can be invented has been invented), or we deserve a better lifestyle than our position allows, perhaps it is that we would rather spend time “fooling around” than completing whatever tasks confront us.

I’m finding more and more professionals in my line of work who are looking for forty hour weeks, nights off, and an end to needy people. I see greater numbers of people who feel as if someone else should do the work while they follow every whim or fancy leading to failure to perform.

John 9:4 says, I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night comes, when no man can work. We have so little time to be about the Father’s business. We have so many people who have need of the Gospel and the llove of the brethren. We have so many who are yet far from the maturity in the faith that is expected by our Father.

Listen to me! Go on vacation! Retire! Start spending that money you’ve saved up for a rainy day – but don’t forget your responsibility to God, and to those around you. Don’t think that because you have reached a certain point in your life that you no longer must focus on God’s design for your life. When’s He’s finished with you, He’ll take you home.