Categories: orthodox-life
Date: 03 December 2004 20:09:56
If only this was my prayer each morning I as I set off for work [and today especially, given it is a Saturday and I am required there in an hour]!There was in the Cells an old man called Apollo. If someone came to find him about doing a piece of work, he would set out joyfully, saying, 'I am going to work with Christ today, for the salvation of my soul, for that is the reward he gives.'
Sayings of the Desert Fathers
The quote from the Desert Fathers above was the 'quote' from the talks that struck me the most. How often have I thought that work gets in the way? How often have I seen it as an intrusion? Especially on a day like today, where I have to go in and therefore miss The Curate's priesting (Curate, I pray it is a blessed day; and sorry I couldn't make it).
But we are called to work. Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden to work the earth. St Paul tells us, "if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either." [2 Thess 3:10] He also wrote:
Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.Though we are not slaves at work, I do believe the same principle applies. I generally have a happy disposition at work and gladly take on what comes my way, and do the best job I am able.
Col 3:22-24
But, as always happens when you try to put something into action, or when you take particular note of your actions, the devil brings all manner of temptations and trials to put you off. This past week has been more trying than most due to a massive increase in workload, and frustration from management who are under pressure due to some decisions made. Extreme pressure is something I'm not good at dealing with, and this week I've snapped and thought evil of many people. I know, as Lisa and Veritas reminded me in the comments of my last blog, that Jesus Christ has won us the victory and we should focus on this anew each day, but I am not happy with some of my reactions and actions this week.
May God help me today, next week, and forever, to set out to work joyfully, saying, 'I am going to work with Christ today, for the salvation of my soul, for that is the reward he gives.' And may I remember this while I am there.