I love that scripture verse. I’m pretty sure it means something different to each person that reads it, because we’re all coming from different places and perspectives. For me, it always helped while doing a job that I didn’t enjoy doing. For example, scrubbing floors and baseboards, cleaning my oven after the holidays or wiping down the ceiling fan blades. I was raised by a mom who loved hearth and home and who found everything about it, pleasing and beautiful. So I love home…wherever it may be. And I enjoy keeping it clean, orderly and cozy. But…there are always certain chores that I procrastinate on and struggle with. That’s when the scriptures in Colossians work their magic. If I remind myself that I am cleaning my baseboards not just for me, but for the Lord, it helps me see things a little differently. I want to do my very best, always. Whatever I put my hands or mind to. My joy is knowing that the Lord is mindful of everything I do…the easy and fun things on my list, as well as the tough and challenging items.
He cares, He sees and if it matters to me…it matters to Him. I don’t always approach my job inside my home or outside, for that matter, with a smile and a song! But…I do try to always be grateful. Even when I don’t feel good, or I only got 4 hours of sleep…even when I am sad or discouraged and want to pull the covers over my head and cry because the load is heavier than my shoulders can bear… I hear the verses in my head that let me know I am not alone. The Lord is with me in my daily routine of working, cleaning, studying and writing, and helping my family when I can with what I have. He’s there. We are workers, trying to get through each day the best we can… Hoping to make a difference, seeking a sense of purpose and praying above all, that everything I do, is pleasing to Him.
As I wrap up this little post, I am staring at my baseboards. They could use some serious cleaning. But it’s Labor Day, and I am ceasing from any work today! Come on…even God Himself took a day off to rest! The baseboards can wait!
Pam Torres | Author 