Day 8 | Keith’s story

Reflection

Keith’s a self-employed decorator. He used to see work and faith as totally separate. But everything changed after his car crash. His perspective radically shifted, and he saw every breath as a gift from God. Out of thankfulness, he started to give a proportion of his earnings to the church.

But that’s not where the story ends. A few years later, he had a lightbulb moment. He realised his work mattered to God – the broad brushstrokes and the fine details. God cared about his careful application of primer, his commitment to hoovering up dust, and his desire to go above and beyond for customers facing difficult life circumstances. By working with all his heart, he was serving Jesus and bringing God’s kingdom to the homes, shops, and offices he decorated.

And the same is true for you, too. Even if you feel your day-to-day is like watching paint dry, remember you’re working for the Lord. He sees every loo cleaned, every envelope stuffed, every brick laid, every expense report filled, every tire changed – and, what’s more, he’s with you as you go about these mundane tasks.

Let that sink in. God cares about your work. It’s not just a means to earn money – though that is a way in which he blesses his children and those around them – but also an opportunity to model godly character, minister grace, and love, and be a mouthpiece for truth and justice.

So, even when your boss doesn’t seem to care or, yet again, your toddler fails to say thank you, work with all your heart. Give it your everything, because you’re working with Jesus, who gave everything for you, in the knowledge that he’s placed you right where you are with a purpose: to give him glory and reflect his character in every small action and encounter.

Father, help me to work with all my heart today, using my words and actions to bring your kingdom to my workplace, home, and neighbourhood. Help me serve others and, in doing so, point to Jesus, the servant king. Amen.