work force
“The Lord God then took the man and settled him in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it.” —Genesis 2:15
Work was part of paradise. Man cultivated and cared for the garden of Eden before he sinned. We still experience glimpses of fulfillment and creativity in work. Yet, after the fall of man, work has been warped by sin, and our experience of work is often closer to Hell than Paradise.
The good news is that when Jesus redeemed us, He saved every aspect of our lives, including work. We no longer must earn our bread by the sweat of our brows (Gn 3:19). We have a loving Father Who knows what we need (Mt 6:32). We need not be like unbelievers, always worrying about what we are to eat, drink, or wear (Mt 6:31). If we seek first the kingdom of God, everything we need is given to us (Mt 6:33).
Now we’re free to work not for perishable food, but for food that lasts unto life eternal (Jn 6:27). Are you working in slavery or freed from slavery? Accept Jesus’ redemption and liberation for your work.
Prayer: Jesus, if I accept Your freedom in my work, I am free indeed (Jn 8:36).
Promise: “You renew the face of the earth.” —Ps 104:30
Praise: St. Scholastica was absolutely pure her entire life and lived for Jesus as a nun. Her life of faithfulness was hidden with Christ in God (Col 3:3).
Reference: (If Jesus is your Rock, the Beatitudes must be your ladder to heaven. They are at the heart of Jesus’ teachings. Join us for a retreat, Living the Beatitudes, Feb. 19-20. Call 513-373-2397 or 937-587-5464 for location and to register.)
Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from February 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021. Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio March 31, 2020"
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.