Monday's thoughts

"Working for the Laud"
We are thinking about thanking just now in the church. We are taking the time to thank each group that is involved in the ministry here. Our Commitment Sunday concluded early this year and that left a number of Sundays for us to do something we had not done before; to take the time to thank people who rarely are recipients of gratitude. The fact is there are so many of our members who are working in the background doing what they do without recognition. We wanted to take some time to thank them. This will continue until November 22nd, the Sunday before Thanksgiving Day.

The sermon Sunday will look at an aspect of thankfulness. What do we do and how do we handle not being appreciated for the things we do? Does that stifle our enthusiasm for the task? How can it not?

What does it mean to work for the praise; to work for the laud? Is there a better way to engage ourselves in the important work that needs to be done than expecting to be appreciated, noticed, or thanked?

I think there is a better way. In fact, if we are working for the laud we will be disappointed. Many times we will be overlooked. People are busy with their own efforts. People don't always see what is being done and we find ourselves being bypassed and overlooked.

What is the best motivation to fulfill the important tasks? Is it in the accomplishment with the understanding of a job well done? Is it some sense divine recognition and accomplishment; our labor is not in unnoticed if it is an expression of our faith? Is there a difference between working for the Lord and working for the laud?
What do you think? What motivates you to do the good that you do? If you have some thoughts on this write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net. If you are willing to allow others to read your ideas click on the box below.

I look forward to hearing from you.


Charles Schuster