Scripture Verse: So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 1 Cor. 10:31.
Now that Christmas is over, most of our Christmas trees have been or will be taken down and the ornaments put away for another year. Have you ever wondered why putting up the tree is more fun than taking it down? I have, and I’ve noticed other things as well. For instance, I always enjoy setting the table for a special dinner more than clearing it after the dinner guests have left. And packing for a family vacation is much more compelling and exciting than unpacking. Perhaps the answer lies not so much with our after-Christmas let-down than with facing what comes next – the unspecial, unspectacular return to our normal lives – day to normal day.
Let’s face it, God calls us to be “Everyday Christians” for the majority of our lives, but sometimes hidden there in the ordinary is our true value, our identity, and our unique calling to a life of extraordinary faithfulness, consistency, service, and love.
When Mary and Martha were blessed with the thrill of hosting our Savior in their own home, what do you imagine they did after He left? They probably cleaned up and did the dishes! After John the Baptist was given the honor of baptizing our Lord in the Jordan River, he no doubt returned to his preaching ministry. In Matthew we read the miraculous account of Christ’s Transfiguration, but what happened next? Jesus came down from the mountain and was immediately met with crowds of people who were seeking Him, and to whom He spoke and ministered. Even the Son of God had his day to day work to do, work to which He was called by the Father!
What is your day to day work? Where has the Father placed you in this world and what has He given you to do? Whether it seems great or small, average or special, are you performing it with the faithfulness of John the Baptist, the consistency of Mary and Martha, and the love of Christ? While the Christmas mornings and mountaintop experiences can be great blessings in our lives, who we truly are can more often be found every day in our homes, offices, churches and schools, where God sees our everyday faithfulness and is pleased.
In Luke 10, there was much rejoicing when Jesus’ disciples returned having ministered to the people with great power and success. But Jesus wisely reminded them that what really mattered is that their names are written down in heaven. Indeed, this is where their true worth and identity was to be found – in belonging to God. Likewise, we are not insignificant, and nothing we do is insignificant as long as we are in Him and are found faithful to Him.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for calling me to a life of service, for equipping me for that work, and for using me to further your kingdom. I rejoice that you know my name and it is written in heaven. Please help me to be the very best Christian that I can be, serving you and others with a glad and humble heart, whether on the mountains or in the valleys, but mostly in the every days in between. Amen.