I’ve been at work since 8AM Wednesday morning. The conference call rolled around the globe from one support team to another through the day, night, and morning again. I’m about to see my shift mates return to the office to me still in the same clothes. I’m thankful to the Lord for the strength to endure, but definitely seeking an end in sight to the endless hours and long nights of the past month. I’ve had so little uninterrupted sleep in the past 5 weeks that I’m just a rodeo clown dodging bulls from one day to the next.
My wife and I worked in a quick phone call to still do our morning devotional together, and I was able to tell my daughter that I love her and miss her before she gets ready for school. When we are on the other side of a phone, it doesn’t matter if we are 10 miles away or 1000, because we aren’t there for the hugs, the quality time, the important time leading our household. But even these little sacrifices are nothing in comparison to the cross.
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28 NLT
http://bible.com/116/mat.11.28.NLT
Why do we do it? There is no extra pay, there is no comp time, there is no recognition or reward – there is just greater responsibility that is placed on our shoulders as we prove that we are capable of carrying the heavy load.
Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
Colossians 3:23 NLT
http://bible.com/116/col.3.23.NLT
Yes, it is an opportunity to serve faithfully. There is a need. We are able to fill it.
I keep telling myself this, and trusting in the Lord helps – but don’t think that it is easy for me, friends. The struggle is real, and we each face our challenges. Some may laugh at 70 hour work weeks plus the hours of dedicated ministry and time focused on leading a family – because their life is tough too. I’m not here to compete or boast – I’m here to admit that this life, if we’re willing to do it right, takes effort and dedication.
And yes, it’s okay to let them see you sweat.
Harold J. Ballinger 