Strong and Immovable

Paul tells us in today’s reading to be strong and immovable. When I was younger, I’d go with the flow and do whatever I wanted. I’d proclaim to be a Christian, but I was weak and moved where the “fun” was. I’m so thankful for the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Now, I want to be strong and immovable.  

‘So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.’
1 Corinthians 15:58

Always work enthusiastically for the Lord.

I wonder what life would look like if we approached even the most mundane task as if we were working enthusiastically for the Lord? I love the quote from Brother Lawrence.

“I turn my little omelet in the pan for the love of God.”
Brother Lawrence

Sometimes, I get tired of work and farm chores. Recently, I turned my back on our ram and got hit by it at full speed. My knees buckled, hands out to save myself from faceplanting in six inches of mud and horse poop. I failed. The fall drenched me in muck. The scene would have made a great YouTube video.

I was slightly angry, mostly at myself, I know better than to turn my back on him. His name is “Ram-a-Lamb“. But I need to remember that God has blessed me with a cool farm and the strength and grace to do these things. Some people will never get to pet a horse or, thankfully, get blindsided by a ram.

If only I were more mindful not only of what I’m doing but also of who I’m doing it for.

One way to practice this mindfulness is to pause for just a moment before starting a task, whether big or small, and offer a simple prayer like,

“Lord, I give everything and everyone to you. I offer this work to you. Help me do it with joy and for your glory. Holy Spirit, help us to be strong and immovable, help us always work enthusiastically for Jesus, regardless of the task.” In Jesus Name, Amen.