The Irony of Work - Part 2

The Practice of the Presence of God is a Christian classic. The book is a collection of letters, notes, and accounts of conversations of Brother Lawrence, a lay brother in the Discalced Carmelites in Paris. He lived from 1611 to 1691; the book was published after Brother Lawrence's death.

Brother Lawrence found the secret to working joyfully as a servant. "Though he disliked kitchen work, he served as cook for in his community for thirty years," so says the back cover of this little book.

What was Brother Lawrence's secret? The inside cover of the book says, "He discovered the powerful secret of sensing the continual presence of God in even 'the little things' of everyday life." Listen to one of Brother Lawrence's comments: "I turn the cake that is frying in the pan for love of Him; and that done, if there is nothing else to call me, I prostrate myself in worship before Him who has given me grace to work."(Italics mine)

I admit that I don't always "turn the cake that is frying" for love of Him. In fact, sometimes I get tired of having to cook day in and day out. But I think Brother Lawrence got it right; whatever we do with an awareness of God gives joy to our work. I have begun praying that I would walk with awareness with God every day. As I cook, I try to thank Him for a stove to cook on, running water, electricity, and a plethora of modern coveniences.

The King of the universe stooping down to bathe smelly, dirty feet exemplifies servanthood. How can we think any kind of work or service is beneath us? In John 4:34 Jesus said, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work." Jesus' "work" took Him to the cross. And how could Jesus accomplish His Father's will? Through love for Him and constantly being in His Father's presence.

Yes, Brother Lawrence found the secret to working joyfully as a servant. He followed Christ's example.

As we begin a new year, I pray we would "practice the presence of God" so our our work becomes a joyful service to God!