Read: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. (v. 58)
In the early 1900s, an old missionary couple was returning home to America after decades of ministry in Africa. The results of their ministry were meager, and the couple seemingly had little to show for a lifetime of effort. Sometime during the ocean voyage the couple discovered that they were on the same ship with Teddy Roosevelt. The former U.S. president was returning to America from one of his big-game hunting expeditions. When the ship docked in New York, the mayor and other dignitaries were on hand to greet Roosevelt. A military band played in his honor. There was much hand shaking and photo taking. No one noticed the old missionary couple as they slipped quietly off the ship. The disparity of all this finally got to the old man. “Roosevelt receives a tremendous welcome,” the man said to his wife, “yet not one person comes to meet you and me when we return home.” To which his wife replied, “But we’re not home yet.”
“Your labor is not in vain,” said Paul. Nothing done for Christ can ever be considered a failure. The results of our service may seem meager by worldly standards, but we labor for God’s approval, not the world’s. We’re not home yet, but someday we will be, and then will come the Father’s approval, “Well done, good and faithful servant . . . Enter into the joy of your master” (Matt. 25:21). —Lou Lotz
As you pray, give thanks that Christ’s victory is your victory.
About the Author
Rev. Lou Lotz is a recently retired Reformed Church pastor. Lou and his wife Mary Jean live in Hudsonville, Michigan.
