Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - July/71

Contributor - Harvey Van Farowe

Title - Serving Christ As You Work

Topic - Serving

"Whatever your task, work heartily, as serving the Lord and not men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you are serving the Lord Christ." Colossians 3 : 23 and 24

Some of us like our job better than others. Few of us enjoy every duty or aspect of our work. There is that which we really enjoy and that which we do since it's expected of us and because we don't want to give a bad impression.

All who are Christians, however, should know that they either honor or dishonor their blessed Saviour as they work. Serving Christ isn't reserved to singing a few songs of praise on Sunday or giving thanks for our food at mealtime. It comes down to the sweat and effort of the six days of labor.

Paul, the apostle, wrote to some Christian slaves in Colossae, "whatever your task, work heartily, as serving the Lord, and not men." Those Christian slaves, perhaps slaves for life, were to see beyond their earthly masters and regard Christ as their chief Master and Employer. In this conviction, even those tasks which were most undesirable were to be done heartily, enthusiastically, "out of the soul".

It certainly makes a difference whether we do our work as unto our gracious Saviour or just "unto men". If one works unto Christ his work seems sacred, far more important, and can be enjoyable. Think over this practical directive. Your task may be scrubbing the kitchen floor where a big family eats or it may be teaching a difficult Sunday School class or working in a hot place in the factory. Some work with pain of body or with a handicap and some work amongst many who are not children of God.

Such hearty, enthusiastic working is a inspiration to others. Recently, I witnessed a Christian sociology professor at the University of Guelph planning a T.V. program. It was a program about a child care organization, World Vision. The professor had several things to iron out and some rather difficult decisions to make in order to have the right timing and a good program. He was working with amateurs and a lot of decisions fell to him. But he did it all "heartily", cheerfully, efficiently. And I thought his attitude and enthusiasm was a good witness to all, including the T.V. workers at the studio. His Christian faith came through.

As we work, we ought not just think of the present. There are rewards in heaven. Paul reminded the Christian slaves in Colossae of this. Rewards for them might be very scarce in this life but not heavenly reward from their chief master. Christ is no respecter of persons.

Shouldn't we live more in the light of eternity? And aren't some of us failing to use our place of work as a unusual opportunity to serve Christ and witness to His ever-present reality?

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