What part of your day is service, what part is work?

We are just a few days past the celebration of labor day– I came upon this reflection by Joyce Rupp and want to share it with you, but acknowledge her as the author. I share pieces of her reflection and ask you to take time to respond as your heart and spirit is moved. Joyce Rupp raises a very powerful and insightful question.

HOW MUCH OF WHAT YOU DO EACH DAY IS SERVICE AND WHAT PART IS JUST WORK?

Meditation
“Stand in an open doorway. Take a deep breath and deliberately unite with the Holy One’s presence. Call to mind qualities you bring with you into your labors. Extend your arms outward beyond the door. As you do so, send forth your earnest love toward those who are a part of your life and recepients of your service today. Imagine this love blessing them. Continue standing in the doorway. Now extend your love to the larger world. Face the East. Send your love to this part of the world. Do the same for the South, the West, and the North. Close by folding your hands over your heart and extending this same goodness to yourself.”

God who labors and serves with us, in us and through us—
Teacher and Healer,
your brought the gift of yourself
to those who benefited from your work.
You touched them with steadfast love.
Remind me each day to do the same.
Touch and bless all I do today
so my service to others brings a blessing to them and also to me.
I open the door of my heart to you.

Rupp’s words are worth your time for reflecting. There is a tremendous difference between labor and service. Both require energy, determination and attentiveness. However service is shown with tremendous care, compassion, selflessness and humility. Bless my service with your grace and direction.