Since 1894 in the United States, on the first Monday in September, people around the country celebrate Labor Day. This federal holiday, meant to recognize laborers, now marks the official “end of summer” and the start of football season. What was originally a Monday away from work has become a long weekend or weeklong vacation.
All of us live hectic lives, and we need breaks. In fact, this rhythm of work and rest first appears in the creation week. For six days God created the universe, and on the seventh day he rested. God further encoded sabbath rest with the fourth commandment. Ultimately, the sabbath points our weary and burdened hearts to rest in Christ (Matt 11:28).
While we long for sabbath breaks, and we find rest in Christ, we must also recognize the importance and necessity of labor. Yes, we must work for an income and to cover our expenses. But I also want you to consider the work we must do for the gospel. Paul encourages us not to become weary in doing good—especially with the church (Gal 6:9-10).
My parents and grandparents, and others from their generations, once planned family outings, vacations, and breaks around their participation in the church. They delayed leaving for road trips, shortened holiday weekends, or attended a local church on vacation so they could worship and witness. Some even boasted of “perfect attendance.”
Multiple church surveys are now reporting an uptick in church attendance and participation among younger generations of Christians. Two decades of overall decline in churches may be trending toward renewal for the next generation. Young adults are expressing interest in Christianity, and new believers are committing to local churches.
As you celebrate Labor Day this weekend, enjoy some rest, recreation, and football. If you are out of town, visit a like-minded church in that area. Also, pray for our church. Ask God what “work” he wants you to do in our church. With Christ stirring the next generation, we should be excited and engaged about showing up and reaching them.
In Christ,
Pastor Nathan