When we think of Labor Day, we tend to look at it as an American holiday. Actually, it was first instituted by Canada after many labor disputes over 12-hour workdays. Like our neighbors to the north, the U.S. quickly followed suit and Labor Day was designated as a day to honor all the workers who helped to make our country into what it is. It’s hard to imagine working for 12 hours each day – especially in jobs that require you to be awake and alert. For example, if you were a laborer in the steel industry and fell asleep at the job it could mean the difference between life and death. At the turn of the 19^th century, the leaders of industry were interested in building this new nation with all of its natural resources. The physical resources of everyday men and women provided the necessary grit and stamina to bring those ideas to fruition.

I officially retired when I was 75. After a year, I discovered that something was wrong. I no longer had a routine. No more getting up at 6 AM. I could sleep until noon if I wanted to. No more scripts to write. No more, the loud sound of young voices. The reality of being without that part of my life, made me realize how important it was for me. After a year, I returned to my love of theatre and got involved in a local performing arts company. Here I am at 84 years old and I still wake most mornings at 6 AM. I try to maintain some structure, but age has limited me. When I’m not busy, I often feel unnecessary. God is still blessing me with things to do.

Work is not a curse, as many think. God didn’t punish mankind for his disobedience with work – even though many believe their jobs to be unrewarding and mundane. He gave us the ability to share ideas, to dig into a project, solve problems, be part of a team, to give us a purpose in our living. When the first human beings disobeyed God, work became difficult. (Genesis 3:1.) Labor was designed by God at the time of creation. The fall into sin caused work to be done by the sweat of the brow. Today as you celebrate this holiday, thank God for work. Through it, you have a reason for getting up each day.

Dear, Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of labor. Without the ability to work, we are losing out on so much. Our hands were not meant to be idle. Our ideas should be put into action. Our purpose in serving you, should be witnessed through our labors. Help us to remember that work results in action. Action gives us purpose. All things in your creation are good and the fruits of our laboring are a testament to that. In Jesus name, I praise, thank and honor you. Amen!

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!