Labor and Rest

In the area where I grew up, the school year began after Labor Day. The holiday marked the unofficial end of summer and the return to school routines.

The idea of Labor Day began as a holiday to celebrate all workers, their contribution to everyday life, and the strength of organized labor. As a federal holiday, many people will celebrate with a long weekend break, but unfortunately, many laborers will be required to work that day! Labor is often an unpleasant reality of human life, although many people work jobs that they truly enjoy doing.

Our work can be beneficial, but God didn’t create us to work all the time. In fact, God instituted the Sabbath to make it clear to us that workaholism does not please God. Furthermore, God set an example for us by completing creation in six days, with the seventh as a day of rest.

One of the best ways that we can honor God and observe Labor Day this weekend is to find some time to rest. In our online worship this weekend, we will participate with other United Methodists across Florida in a focus on labor and rest. Join us in worship online at 10:00 a.m. this Sunday!

Blessings,

Pastor Paul Cook