Labors of Love

There are so many reasons to be thankful, including so many people that bless our lives.

Several days ago, I was visiting with a friend at his home. He and I were sitting on the front porch talking and watching the neighborhood activity. Children were riding their bikes along the sidewalk, several couples were strolling together, and people were coming in and out of their homes. Occasionally, my friend would offer a little commentary on the people who were passing by, talking about where they lived, their work and some of the things they did together.

Across the street, a young man came out of his house to get into his SUV. As he did, my friend called out, “Hey, thanks for your service!” The young man smiled, thanked him back and drove away. I then learned that he just returned from military service in the middle east. I wondered how many people knew he was gone and how many of them would ever express their gratitude for his willingness to go.

There are many people who serve, not just in the military, but in all facets of life. We are blessed by so many individuals, families and groups who give of themselves so that we, and others, can enjoy our lives more fully. Each of us is blessed by the faithful service of others, and such blessings call for thanksgiving.

When Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, he began his letter with this thanksgiving, “We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)

Imagine the encouragement this brought to those who were giving their lives for others. What a difference it must have made to know that Paul and those with him we constantly giving thanks to God for their service. I imagine it made the work even more enjoyable and worthwhile.

Last week, I received an email from one of my former youth group members. She had a question to ask, but she took the time to share that she felt blessed that I was her pastor. She told me the impact I made in her life and thanked me for what I did. I am still humbled and encouraged by her words.

Often, we serve and never know if we made a difference. We can only hope that, by God’s grace we did. But, when you hear those words of thanks, it makes a difference in you. What a blessing words of thanksgiving and encouragement are to those who serve. How many people need to hear such words right now?

Today, many of us will go to our local church to worship. Being Labor Day weekend, our thoughts may likely be on thanksgiving for a day of rest. Maybe, in the midst of all that we do, we could take time to remember and give thanks for those people who bless our lives. Maybe, we could even take a moment to tell them the difference they make in the world and to us. Maybe, we could take just a moment to bless those who bless us.

May the attitude of constant thanksgiving Paul shared be ours today, as we give thanks for all of the labors of love that bless our lives.

About Chuck

2 thoughts on “Labors of Love

  1. I know that your presence in my life, along with that of your wife and daughter, have made a difference in my life. Thank you for the times we have had together over coffee. I look forward to many more.

  2. Gail,

    Thank you for your kind words. Our family is thankful for you and the coffee times as well. We look forward to a latte and good conversation soon.

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