Renovating Eternity
Last week, I embarked on a DIY adventure, renovating our downstairs bathroom. It was a journey of twists and turns, filled with frustration, satisfaction, and a newfound respect for tradespeople. The experience taught me that even the simplest tasks, like plumbing, can be a complex puzzle. Despite the challenges, my son is thrilled to have a sleek new bathroom, and my wife is relieved to have one less person making a mess. I, too, am grateful for the end result.
The Impermanence of Ministry
Someone asked me how this experience compared to my work as a pastor. It’s a mixed bag. On one hand, creating something tangible, like a renovated bathroom, brings a sense of permanence that’s often lacking in ministry. Sermons, counseling sessions, and other efforts can feel fleeting, with little lasting impact. But on the other hand, the work I do as a pastor has the power to touch hearts, extend to the ends of the earth, and last forever.
Intersecting Eternity
This is the true joy of following Jesus: every believer has the opportunity to intersect eternity, regardless of their day job. We all have the power to make a lasting impact, to steward our time and talents in a way that honors God. The Apostle Paul reminds us to “devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” and to “make the most of every opportunity” (Colossians 4:2, 4-6).
Stewarding Eternal Power
Not everyone is skilled with a hammer or a wrench, but we can all heed Paul’s counsel. We can live in a way that is full of grace, seasoned with salt, and always ready to answer others. When we do, we can trust that God will take our efforts and make them stand in the heavens, where nothing on earth can remove them. Even when our renovations need renovating, we can know that our work has eternal significance.
Living with Eternity in Mind
As I reflect on my bathroom renovation, I’m reminded that it’s not just about the end result; it’s about the journey. It’s about living each day with eternity in mind, seeking to make a lasting impact in the lives of those around us. When we do, we’ll find that our work, no matter how small it may seem, is infused with eternal significance.
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