Good Monday morning! I come to you today with a river of joy in my heart, grateful as I watch God breathe fresh life into our work, our vision, and our service.

This week, I was taken back to my early days of faith—fresh out of college, my mentor had me memorize John 3:16, and then said, "Now that you’re a working man, you need to know Colossians 3:23–24." That verse has shaped me: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for people… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

In Hebrew, work and worship are closely linked. Every task, big or small, becomes an act of devotion. In the book, written a few centuries ago, Brother Lawrence called it practicing God's presence, not just in prayer but in every moment.

Let’s pray: Father, thank you for the gift of work.

Awaken in us a spirit of excellence, for it is our everyday worship.

Help us go the extra mile, to serve with joy and heart, not just when people are watching, but especially when no one sees.

May our character and effort reflect your love in every workplace and marketplace.

Open doors for growth and favor, and fill us with wisdom to keep learning, growing, and serving others.

May we do our work with all our heart, bringing you glory and uplifting and encouraging everyone around us. Amen.