Work

Work

May the favor of the LORD our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.

“OKAY, ASHLYN, what do you want to be when you grow up?” Fingers poised over the keyboard, I glanced up to see my five-year-old daughter’s face screwed up in concentration. School was starting later in the week, and I’d created signs for each child that commemorated the occasion. Along with their grade level, favorite book, and things they loved, I’d added the category of what they wanted to be in the future.

“I want to be the person you see at Target,” she said.

“Which person?”

“The one who helps you buy stuff,” she said helpfully.

“A cashier?” I sought clarification.

“Yes!” she said, beaming.

“Okay,” I said, turning to Noelle. “What about you?”

“Ooh, I want to be the person who fixes doll hair. You know, like the people we saw at the American Girl store.”

“Me too!” Elise called from the other room.

I couldn’t help but smile at their answers, because even though we’ve talked about a vast range of vocations—scientists like Marie Curie, world changers like Rosa Parks, and pilots like Amelia Earhart are among their favorite people to read about—it’s the individuals they see on a daily basis who have made the most impact. I asked for an occupation, but they responded with attributes. The occupations they mentioned are filled by people they’ve seen at our local stores on a consistent basis, people who smile and say hello, people who offer to help. And when my daughters look at the world, they want to be the same thing: a person who helps, a person who cares for others. They want to be someone who fixes problems, makes changes, and finds solutions.

No matter our title, we can be known by who and what we represent. When we give the work of our hands over to God’s care, everything we do is equally worthy and worthwhile. Though our jobs may vary, we have the opportunity to influence others every day.

Lord, thank you for the work of our hands. May our efforts glorify you. Amen.

-Kristin

One Good Step: What are some ways you can use your daily work to influence others?