I grew up in a home where my father owned a business. It was called “Hastings Business Machines.” He dealt with typewriters, business machines like cash registers, photocopiers, etc. and all forms of office furniture and products (everything from chairs, desks and filing cabinets to office supplies like pens and paper). He employed several technicians and a couple of sales people along with a secretary. It was a thriving little business with a broad array of services.
I worked in my father’s business starting from when I was a teenager. I began at the bottom and worked in areas where he needed me most. A lot of it was manual labour. I worked hard and loved that I got to learn and grow with my father as my guide. Growing up in that business taught me lots about life in general, people and life skills that I still apply in Pastoral Ministry today.
In a way, it reminds us of the Christian life. The Lord Jesus calls us to come to work with Him. 1 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV) says, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” I worked, hand in hand, with my father to help build his business. We work hand in hand with Jesus to help build His Kingdom. I did little things. Sometimes I did major things but they all came together in my dad’s plan to make the business prosper and work.
This is the same as we labor for Jesus and His Kingdom. All that we do is vitally significant in making the Kingdom function and grow. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV) states, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” It is simply a matter of perspective. No matter what we do, give it our best shot – relax and know that the Holy Spirit uses our efforts to make the Lord’s "business” grow.
A farm boy got a white football for Christmas. He played with it awhile and accidentally kicked it over into the neighbour’s yard. The old rooster ran out, looked at it, and called the hens to see it. “Now look here,” the rooster told them, “I don’t want you to think I’m complaining, but I want you to see what they are doing next door.”
Don’t worry about what they are doing next door. Whatever God has called you to do at this stage in life, with whatever resources He gives you, just simply serve Him. Walk with Him and trust Him as He builds his business with you. Enjoy your time with your Heavenly Father as you work with Him. He loves working with you!
As we start this week remember, you are an important part of the Kingdom. Jesus Christ has invested His very life in you (John 3:16) and will never let you go (Philippians 1:6). Trust Him! You are an important part of His business!
Have a great day, stay safe and remember you are, “loved with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3) - Pastor Ralph
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