Each of us has a work to do.

But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

            It can become easy for us to feel that we have nothing to offer, or that we are less than what others are, or that we bring no lasting value to the kingdom of God.  We sometimes get distracted by worldly expectations, or by unhealthy comparisons to others, and in the process discover that we are beginning to lose confidence—that we are beginning to doubt the part that we play as a child of God.  On the one hand, we believe that God has called all his people to be a part of his work.  On the other, we are uncertain what in the world God might have in mind for us to do.

Paul’s words above are critical in keeping in the forefront of our minds things of supreme importance.  He expresses in just a few words the understanding that our lives have great worth as servants and followers of Jesus.  He triumphantly proclaims the primacy of the good news about Jesus and His work.  He confidently declares the eternal value of testimony when that testimony comes from one committed to the ministry of Christ.  He boldly looks ahead to the completion—on God’s own terms—of the work that he has been given to do because of his faith association with Jesus Christ.  All in all, Paul describes a life that is lived well in the face of success and trial.  He depicts a life that understands its true value.

Each of us has a work to do.  Made in the very image of God, and saved by that same God through his Son, we live in this world as equipped, gifted people.  Let us all consider this great blessing today, and let us all redouble our commitment to allowing God to work in us.

–Ricky

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