NOTHING BUT THE BEST

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men… Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

I was quite taken by the comments of a bishop at our workshop this weekend. He said he trains all his people to excel at everything they do for the Lord. He gave an example: When anyone is to read Scripture in a service, he asks them not only to practice but also to memorize the Scripture they will read so that they are totally familiar with the Word and do not have to look down. He encourages excellence in all his parishioners rather than mere compliance.

How many times do we perform tasks in church or at work or at home just to finish the job rather than seeking ways to heartily do what we have been called to do? Wouldn’t we bring honor to God if in everything we do we do our very best? After all, Jesus always gave his best for us. Surely, with love and commitment for him, we can do the same.

I’m a reader this weekend. I’m headed off to memorize my passage.

Father, you have always given us your finest. Stir us to be intolerant of personal mediocrity and to heartily serve and love others as you have served and loved us. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.