The Carpenter

2 Chronicles 30:12 – The hand of God was on the people to give them unity of mind to carry out what the king and his officials had ordered, following the word of the Lord. (NIV)

While watching a team of carpenters working on a project at my home, I noticed one older gentleman working alongside a group of younger men. The men were putting in long days, and the work was physically demanding. After a few days, I said to the older gentleman, "You must find it difficult to work at such a physically demanding job day after day."

A slow smile spread across his weathered face. "Yes, I do get tired, but I've learned a few things over the years. I've learned how to get the job done by working efficiently, and fitting in where I'm needed."

Over the next few days, I noticed how the young men used their strength and enthusiasm to do a lot of the heavy work, such as lifting, cutting, and pounding, but the older man did the finishing touches — things that required precise skills and patience. Also, the young men came to him when there was a problem. Together, the team members complemented one another's work.

In our churches and in our work for Christ, we too need to work as a team, recognizing one another's special abilities, and working together to finish the work God has given us to do.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to recognize the value of each person in our families and in our churches. Guide us to fit in where we are needed, and to value the younger person's enthusiasm and strengths, as well as the older person's wisdom and patience. Amen.

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