The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882. It is a day to honor the hard working men and women who have built this great land. Labor comes in an infinite variety of tasks. Labor is both physical and mental. Just as it is hard work to build with one’s hands, it is hard work to build with one’s mind and bring ideas to fruition. Life’s greatest rewards come from life’s hardest labor.
The Christian walk is a walk of immense hard labor. While salvation is by grace and not of works that does not mean the construction of a Christ-like character strong enough to overcome lifelong destructive habits and our selfish natures comes with ease. When Jesus saves us we are inspired to be like the One who died for us. Anyone who ever says being like Jesus is easy obviously does not comprehend the magnitude of the task. Nor do they comprehend the depth of selfish ignorance in their own being.
Giving one’s life to Jesus does not instantly eliminate pride and lust. The moment we make Jesus the Lord of our lives we embark upon the most arduous journey ever taken by the bravest of explorers. We are off to new territory. The Sermon on the Mount becomes our philosophy of life. The Sermon on the Mount contains ideas that have challenged the greatest human minds through the centuries. It upholds a standard of behavior that requires all the help we can get. Fortunately, we are not left to do this on our own. Because we are saved, because we are God’s children, He sends His Spirit to enlighten and strengthen us for the challenge ahead.
Written by Roger Bothwell on September 7, 2009
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org