Putting in the time. Being “on the clock”. Punching in and then punching out and going home. That’s the way it is with many jobs. However, with some occupations the work is taken home; on the mind and on the heart. That’s the way it is with people like caregivers, counselors, teachers, and others. It is also the way it is in ministry. And though I continue to find ministry to be the most rewarding thing I have ever done or could ever be engaged in, there are moments when the thought arises that having a job which could be left at work sounds nice; leaving an eight hour shift behind.
When it is a work of the heart and mind connecting with the lives of others, it seems there is a sense of always being on the clock. That is how I see it for Paul as a faithful giving servant of God. In his second letter to the church at Corinth, after reluctantly listing many things he had gone through in association with his ministry (2 Corinthians 11:23-27), Paul capped it all off in stating. . .
“(28) And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches. (29) Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?” (2 Corinthians 11:28-29 ESV)
Though Paul experienced some severe things, perhaps the pressure of daily concern for the churches was of the heaviest weight of all. Paul’s ministry was a work of heart and mind. He even described his life of ministry as being personally poured out as a drink offering on behalf of others. (Philippians 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6) He was willing to spend and be spent on behalf of souls. (2 Corinthians 12:15) Paul lived life always on the clock.
Now, though this may be the picture of ministry, what about the Christian walk itself? As disciples of Jesus, should we not all be seen as always being on the clock; ready to serve day or night as needs arise, praying day or night on behalf of others, and exemplifying Christ wherever we are and in whatever we might be engaged? If Christ is our life (Colossians 3:4; also note Galatians 2:20), then interacting and living as a Christian is to be our life at all times! No punch in and punch out! May we strive to always be who we have been called to be in Christ as we daily live to His glory and praise!
Have a great day ON THE CLOCK FOR CHRIST!
Carl
———————–
(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
