9-10-2019 All Hands On Deck

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

―John 8:12

What a summer it has been, Lord. I embrace the concept of Labor Day and its observance, but I hadn’t considered the concept of Labor Year!

You, of course, have walked with me, even spiritually carrying me in some cases through the whole journey as I decided early in the spring to tear out and replace the rotted and highly unstable top of the wooden deck attached to the second story of our house. Then to build a porch beneath the structure (which) required the expense and effort of making the above deck watertight.

I performed most of said labor, squeezing in time balanced with my regular job/domestic responsibilities, and honestly Lord; I didn’t know I had it in me. Friends did join in when asked (thank you especially, Mr. Jolly) and I quickly realized how blessed I am by those who were willing to sweat and toil alongside me.

Four months and 40 pounds of lost weight later, several epiphanies have surfaced.

First, you Jesus, having been a tekton during your physical life on earth, toiled in this manner beyond anything of which I’m capable. Yet you devoted additional time, even after your craftsman efforts, to serve and minister to others. I on the other hand, was worn out by my physical efforts and devoted far less time to service opportunities. The comparison again lends opportunity for awe at your dedication in your choice of sacrifice on behalf of me and the rest of humanity.

Second, I find now that the endeavor is nearly completed, that I could easily become consumed by said efforts and let myself be defined by what I have accomplished. The truth is, I am not the “Deck Guy”. I am the “follower guy”. My work is not who I am, only a result of what I believe. I find the reminder that you inspire and convict me to pursue elevated goals to be a reason to praise you even more. You do not ask for me to perform at unobtainable levels and you are there as the example of what can be done by the power and given authority of God.

And then there is epiphany three―the key of trust. I realize that if I prepare first in prayer; seeking through scripture and wise counsel, your will Father―in you Jesus, by The Spirit, I can do all things. Braggadocios? Not if I truly aspire to epiphany number two. Were there times along the way that I was depressed, discouraged, wondering why and how I became immersed in what seemed an un-accomplishable aspiration? You know there were and you whispered encouragement all along the way, even when others shook their heads in amazement at my seemingly insane behavior.

 

Maybe there is another lesson for all of us bound by our physical and mental efforts on this planet, my King. Even when all of life looks less than hopeful (dare I say hopeless?), you are available to give confidence, to offer insight and wisdom, to instill the spirit of faith as long as we look to the light of your example and keep an eye on the path you have paved.

New projects and challenges now shimmer on the horizon. Facilitating another trip to Israel next year looms as a big one. I am tempted again to shake my head in the weakness of my belief that it can happen. So many obstacles, so little preparation time, so many more sojourners desired to join us in the venture. But you have taught me again that the tearing down of my doubt and the rebuilding of my deck of faith, supported by your incredible foundation: will see it (and me) through.

Thank you, again and always, Lord for being my inspiration, my leader and especially my Savior. I have discovered again in the exertion, just how small I am and how large is your love, desire and ability to see my work and fellowship through to completion in you.

I pray it may it always be so,

Mark C.