Looking for a new job

Our society praises those who are constantly rising to the top. We give awards to perfect attendance, years of service and hard working men and women who come to work early and leave late. Not to say having a strong work ethic is a bad thing but is it the one thing that defines us? When we spend all of our time working, we lose the time with our families and friends building lasting relationships that matter much more than the job you have. Of course, a job can bring new friends together and give you satisfaction, but when you retire or quit, how many will remember you? And what will they remember you for? Some of us make a difference in our work but the reality is, when you are gone, they find someone else to fill your spot. We have lost sight if the balance in our lives and spend too much time trying to keep up with schedules that wear us out and have us moving from work to soccer practice to eating dinner on the way and finally crashing once we finally make it home. 

Is that satisfying you? Are you fulfilled with the rat race we call success today? Are you busy doing what you want or what someone else wants?

I decided a few weeks ago I would not let my job define me as much as allow God to be used in great ways through me. When I am work, I will do what I need to do to fulfill my responsibilities but I will also make time for those around me, spending time at the neighborhood bonfires, go camping with the family, walk the dogs as many days as possible and enjoy lunch with a friend. I am guilty of allowing my work to take up most of my days and feeling stressed and overwhelmed most of the time. For me, summer is always a time of reflection on the past year and planning the next year. As I look forward, I want to give more, take less and enjoy the simple things around me every day. Life really has so much more to offer when we do it with others and for others, rather than focusing on how we can make it to the top. 

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23, 24 NIV)