Doing ‘Our Best’ and Helping Others to do Likewise
In my early elementary-school years, I was a classic underachiever. My parents and my teachers told me repeatedly that I did not “apply myself” and that clearly I could do better.
Those admonitions went largely unheeded by me as I continued to languish in mediocrity. But one day, I’m not sure when it was or how it happened, I finally got the message. Maybe the Holy Spirit came upon me and woke me up. Since that time, I have become increasingly aware of the finite amount of time we have in this world, and the fleeting opportunities we have to make a difference.
In the third chapter of Colossians there are several passages that speak to our potential as Disciples of Christ. For example, verses 23-24 provide this valuable advice, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
I find that passage to be both encouraging and inspiring, and that’s really an important part of what we are called on to do. Just as others tried to inspire and encourage me, we are urged to do likewise.
Think how much better our world would be if we would take the time to exhort others to reach their full potential, especially when it comes to serving the Lord.
Earlier in the chapter of Colossians, we are advised to “let the message of Christ dwell among [us] richly as [we] teach and admonish one another with all wisdom…singing to God with gratitude in [our] hearts. And whatever [we] do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
As we enter the second week of Lent, let us take the opportunity to actively engage with others, particularly those who are struggling to help them organize their life and find new direction in Christ our Lord.
Until we meet again, Be Blessed! – Pastor John