“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
-1 Peter 4: 10-11
Yesterday, Labor Day, we recognized the work we do
how we spend our days
what we offer with our hands
the gifts of labor poured out for the world.
Now another day comes
to work, play, and rest
to offer our gifts
to see the work we do
as a gift from God.
Bless the work of our hands
holding, caring, tending, writing, hammering, building, driving, farming, writing, healing.
Bless the work of our mouths
speaking, teaching, preaching, encouraging, reading, singing.
Bless the work of our hearts
consoling, forgiving, worshipping, loving.
Give us courage in the face of adversity.
Give us peace in the eye of a storm.
Give us strength for the road ahead.
In every word we offer
may we praise Jesus.
In every work we do
may we sing of Jesus’ love.
In every task we complete
may we see your presence.
Thank you for the gift of work and service
for people who give of themselves and
for the people who receive the gifts
in all that we do and say and offer,
Jesus be near us. Amen.
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is an ordained ELCA pastor, mother of two, and spouse of an ELCA pastor. She lives with her family in Cole Camp, MO. You can read more at her website, follow her work on Facebook, or sign up for her monthly newsletter.