We may not realize it, but we will spend nearly a quarter of our lives at work, however, many of us will relax and enjoy a day off on Labor Day. An act to pay tribute to American workers was passed by congress in 1894, signed into law by Grover Cleveland, and Labor Day was designated a legal holiday on the first Monday of each September.
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The holiday was considered a way to salute the American work force which had given us the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world had ever known. When I was a young student, the new school year began the day after Labor Day which was the symbolic end of summer. It was also considered proper in the early 1900s to be the last day of the year that one could wear white apparel.
‘An opportunity for all of us’
Labor Day is the only national holiday dedicated to play people rather than heroes and historic events. It provides an opportunity for all of us to recognize and honor the working men and women who have built America to it’s present stature.
Our toil was ordained by God with Adam’s fall. “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food.” (Genesis 3:19) Since Adam began working in the garden, we’ve been destined to have jobs. We cannot escape the fact that work is necessary for all who desire the basic necessities of food and shelter.
The Bible informs us of many occupations during biblical times: Abraham was a herdsman, David was a shepherd, Peter, Andrew, James and John earned their living as fishermen, while Paul was a tentmaker. Jesus Himself was a carpenter prior to His ministry. Being human as well as divine, He likely had calluses on His hands. Surely He experienced the burning sensation of sawdust in His eyes and nostrils and knew about being tired and weary after a long day in Joseph’s work shop.
His great invitation to all workers “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28) shows His compassion for us.
Paul instructs us in Colossians 3:23 that whatever we do, work at it with all our hearts as we are working for the Lord, not for men. Let your employer and fellow employees perceive the life and character of Jesus in you daily work. In the final analysis, that’s how you draw seekers to your Savior.
I recall a story about an old farmer who was selling his best cow. The prospective buyer asked the farmer about the cow’s pedigree, butterfat production and monthly output of milk. The farmer said, “I don’t know what a pedigree is, and I don’t have any idea about butterfat production but she’s a good cow and she will give you all the milk she has.” Perhaps we should follow the example of the milk cow and give all that we can in our chosen field.
Our prayers for Labor Day should be to do the best job that we can in our workplace. We should cherish the friendship of our co-workers and take pride in our place of employment.
Our production will be enhanced, our company will prosper and together we will be a positive contribution to our community.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This article was written by Charles Hendrix, a member of Fannin Baptist Church in Brandon, Mississippi.
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