Our Father’s Business
Be Strong, Be Well — Monday, July 20
Since the crisis of this pandemic started, the business world has suffered greatly. Big businesses are likely to survive, while many smaller ones are going out of business. It is a sad situation for so many people. It is devastating for those directly involved, but there are so many more in line who will be hit by the domino effect.
There is one business that has survived for centuries and will never go out of business. Young Jesus called it, His “Father’s business.” As He grew, He continued doing His Father’s work. He said, "My Father has been working until now, and I have been working" (John 5:17).
The Lord gave us an example to always be doing the work of His kingdom. Every Christian and member of the Lord’s church must be involved in that three-fold business.
First, our work includes evangelism or teaching others the good news message of Jesus Christ and salvation. We are under obligation by the Lord Himself to be about our Father’s business of teaching and making disciples throughout the world (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15, 16).
If we are grateful for our own salvation, why would we not share that good news with others? Our work is cut out for us, because we know many will not respond to the truth. But our job requires planting the seed and watering it. We leave the rest to God. He knows everyone’s heart and where to give the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).
Our second duty involves helping the less fortunate through merciful acts of benevolence. Christians are compassionate people, because we demonstrate the love and compassion God has demonstrated to us. Jesus told His disciples, “...Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8).
God’s people will not allow a needy person to go away empty-handed (James 1:27; 2:16). Jesus said even giving someone a cup of cold water will be rewarded (Matthew 10:42). When we do these merciful, compassionate acts of kindness, Jesus said we are doing them for Him (Matthew 25:40).
Third, our Father’s business is making sure the church, the body of Christ, is edified (Ephesians 4:12). We are that church. As we are out and about doing the Lord’s work, at times we all need to be strengthened and built up. We look out for each other and take the time to encourage and strengthen one another (Hebrews 10:24).
For our Father’s business to be successful, we need all hands on deck. It starts within our own circle of family, friends and acquaintances. There is plenty of work for us to do. But we must work while we can, because the time is coming when no one will be able to work (John 9:4). —Chris