Loads of Laundry
“Whatever you do, work at it with all
your heart as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know you will
receive an inheritance from the LORD as a reward. It is the LORD Christ you are
serving.” Colossians 3:23-24
In C Squared, also known as College Cottage and appropriately
“named” by my university college freshman daughter, we have somewhat of a
division of labor. It is my job to gather, sort, wash, dry, and iron the
laundry. Her job is to put it away (which can take on different meanings at
different times!)…. Recently, she and I were having what we call a “murmuring
heart” day. I had commented that the loads of laundry seemed infinite—sorting,
washing, and starting over again with only a brief glimpse of an empty washer
and dryer. Both of us were having a “complaining moment” mentioning the huge
tub of towels and our disproportionate disenchantment. Following some
discussion and each of us asking forgiveness for our lack of gratitude that had
manifested as heavy sighing, we were given grace to complete the tasks at hand
doing our best. Later, with time to reflect, I thought about how God gathers
His flock—US—gently leading and empowering each one to use the talents He has so
graciously given. Surmising that it is best not to let the dirty laundry pile
up, the same principle is at work in our lives. Vigilance is required to
“gather” by reading God’s Word, “sorting” by listening with sensitive ears,
“washing and drying” by immediately taking our thoughts captive, and “ironing
out” the wrinkles as we ask forgiveness and continue on life’s earthly journey.
Folding or molding and placing us where we can be used as empty vessels to work
for Him fosters peace and a sense of accomplishment that comes from doing our
best for the Master.
Dear God, we pray that today and every day, we will do EVERYTHING you
have for us with joy and gratitude for your glory!
Whether it is “loads of laundry,” listening to a friend, doing a job we
might not “really” like, studying, cooking gluten-free, diligently practicing
music, or ministering in your name, I pray to do it with all my heart—working
for you, my Master!
Copyright
© 2013 by Dr. Donna Earl Bridges
I need you every hour!
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