Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,
knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. Col. 3:23-24
Lord Jesus, we begin this Tuesday profoundly grateful for everything you’ve accomplished for us, and for your ongoing work in our hearts and world. The pressure is off. We could never save ourselves, change others, or fix the universe.
Indeed, Paul’s admonition in this passage is life-giving, heart-freeing, and hope-fueling. Because of your finished work on the cross, our works are deeds of doxology, works of worship, and labors of love. We no longer work to get anything from you, but because we have all things in you. We work from your acceptance, not for it.
Therefore, Jesus, continue to slay the beast of people-pleasing that lives within us. Free us for doing all things “as unto you”: Loving our spouse without manipulation, doing our jobs without self-congratulation, and walking with people with realistic expectations.
Help us forgive others daily, because you’ve forgiven us fully; love others patiently, because you love us perfectly; and serve others with joy, because you serve us with even greater joy.
Hallelujah! the gospel destroyed a wage-earning, merit-accruing, advantage-producing relationship with God. We are rich by you, in you, and for you, Jesus. You took the bankruptcy of our sin on the cross and robed us in the riches of your righteousness.
Should we receive any rewards or crowns, we know their destination is at your feet, not on our heads or in our trophy cases (Rev. 4:10). We are grateful, Jesus, very much so. So very Amen we pray, in your quintessentially awesome name.
