Lessons Learned on the Journey

During the communist era in central and Eastern Europe, work was of great importance. Quality and efficiency, however, were often overlooked, and consumer interests ignored. Even with much effort and work, the product was, at times, unsatisfactory.

Applying this to my own life, I realize how often my work, although abundant in quantity, does not achieve its intended end. Let me illustrate with a simple example from my personal life. Early in my marriage, I wanted to please Pamela by planning and preparing a wonderful vacation at the beach. I was quite confident that I had done well. I had invested much time planning special activities and events for each day.

Every night of our vacation we would climb into bed exhausted from another "fun" day. Pamela was so kind and gracious. In retrospect, I had failed to accomplish the very first task - finding out what kind of holiday Pamela would enjoy. You can guess that she preferred the mountains to the beach, rest to activity and reading to events. I had worked, so diligently, but failed to consult my sweetheart.

I realize that I do the same with God. I am often quick to fly into activity in my desire to accomplish work for God. We are a part of a society that is fixed on "doing". But Jesus gave His disciples a new and different view of work.

". . .'What must we do to do the works God requires?' Jesus answered, 'The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent.'" (John 6:28, 29 NIV)

His concern is for our hearts. Can we begin to view our "work" for God as the act of (the work of) genuine belief? As we consider belief (the condition of our hearts), we may find that it is the most difficult task of all. After this difficult task, our other works for God will be a joy to Him and a privilege for us.