Works is endless. No matter what one does there is more. In spite of intense efforts there is yet more. Even with extended hours the amount that could and should be tackled remains. There are some who na?vely believe that we will finish our work here and join God to idly spend our time relaxing for eternity. John notes something quite different; “they will rule with him [God] age after age after age.” (Revelation 22.5)
I grew up with a Dad who was always busy. It wasn’t that one job consumed his life, it was the multiple jobs and endless hours spent making the ends meet. For my brothers and I his work was our interest. Shop classes and fast cars dominated his hours. The range of “stuff” that we experienced was amazing – from customer bongos and congo drums constructed out of rare hardwoods to spec soap box racers with customer paint work that made them the envy of all to rare cars lovingly rebuilt into living, running, and tangible works of art that both went and looked fast! Everything about Dad’s job was “cool”, “neat”, and fun.
At least this was my perspective. As an adult looking back on my childhood I wonder how he survived the hours out in the cold, fighting to put food on the table, wondering how many more pairs of shoes we were going to destroy next month. His work never ended! Even now in retirement Dad is busier than ever, but there is a difference.
Something happened along the way, especially in retirement. The purpose changed. What was an obligation in the past is now something that is natural. His work is what he loves. If he is tired, a break happens. If a vacation opportunity shows up, things wait. What is his desire is what happens. It may look like work to you and I; Dad seems something different. During his day there are opportunities to create, to share, and to give. I wonder. Is it work? Is it truly living? Should there ever be a difference?
