Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, is a time when many Americans will take a break from their daily toils and celebrate the contributions of the labor force. It’s a day marked by relaxation, family gatherings and barbecues—a moment to appreciate the fruits of our labor by, ironically, avoiding work.
For Christians, however, it’s a time to reflect on the real labor they should celebrate—a labor of faith and gratitude.
In both our secular and spiritual lives, there exists a delicate balance between work and rest. Labor Day serves as a poignant reminder of this balance. Just as we have times to work and times to rest in our daily routines, our Christian journey also comprises moments of spiritual labor and moments of divine grace and rest.
The heart of Christianity lies in the understanding that our restored relationship with God is not contingent upon our own labor. Ephesians 2:8-9 beautifully articulates this truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not of yourselves. It is the gift of God, not of works, so that no one should boast.” Our salvation is a gift freely given by God’s grace, not something we can earn through our efforts.
This divine grace sets Christianity apart from many other religious traditions, where adherents often strive to earn their way to salvation through their deeds. In contrast, Christianity emphasizes that God has already accomplished the work of salvation on our behalf.
It does not, however, negate the importance of our own work in the Christian journey.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are “His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, so that we should walk in them.” While our salvation is not a result of our efforts, it compels us to engage in good works as a response to God’s grace.
Philippians 2:12-13 further illuminates this balance between God’s work and our own: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but so much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For God is the One working in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure.”
Here, we see that both God’s transformative work within us and our diligent effort are essential components of our Christian journey.
On Labor Day, as we celebrate the labor that contributes to the well-being of our nation, let us also reflect on this labor of faith and gratitude. As Christians, we are called to serve the Lord with dedication and wholeheartedness in all aspects of life, including our vocations, as Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. For you serve the Lord Christ.”
This Labor Day, may we find rest in God’s grace while remaining diligent in our commitment to serve Him and others with grateful hearts. {eoa}.
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Shawn A. Akers is the online editor at Charisma Media.
