Scripture: By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds.
1 Corinthians 3:10

The Carpenter

I had one of those heavy days. Everywhere I turned it seemed like more bad news. On my way to work I prayed hoping to hand God the load before having to face my fast paced day. Of course I held onto the burdens and labored all day in my heart over various worries. I even climbed in my car at the end of the and prayed, “Lord, I know there is nothing much I can do to fix these things, so I trust you to take care of me.” I prayed this prayer in just enough time to notice that if I didn’t stop and get gas I would have to pray again about something totally different.

I pulled into the station and grimaced at the $2.25 price on the pump. Begrudgingly I started the pay-at-the-pump process and began running through my burdens again. About that time I heard a voice say, “I bet it costs $50 bucks to fill that one up, hu?” I turned to see an older man across from me already pumping gas into his beat-up truck. We exchanged cordials about the rising gas prices and how we should sell our trucks and SUV’s for small cars. He had a bunch of stuff in the back of his truck so I inquired about what he did for living. He said, “I am a carpenter.” For one moment it crossed my mind that Jesus was a carpenter too. So I replied, “That is a noble profession.” He said, “Yeah, I actually work for a Jewish carpenter.” I nearly fell out right there at the tank.

It was like looking into the face of God! There I was all pent up about the cares and worries of this world, and I worked for a Jewish carpenter too, one who can repair anything! I smiled and said, “How strange, I work for a Jewish carpenter too.” He smiled and said, “I could tell by the smile on your face.” The exchange between us was short, few words were spoken, but that gentleman said a mouthful when he reminded me of who I work for.

I meditated on this all the way home. The more I thought the more God spoke… “Who signs your pay check? Who makes sure you are covered if calamity strikes? Who sees that your needs are met? Who exactly are you reporting to? (A tough question to answer sometimes.) Do you recognize me when I call? Would I give you a good recommendation? Who do you work for exactly?” A trip to the boss’s office never felt so good.

Leslie Stephens
Winchester, TN

Prayer: Thank you for employing me in your work force. Help me to represent you well, so that people will buy what I am selling. You have never failed to give me a raise. You meet all my needs. AMEN!

Prayer Tip: Be aware of your surroundings when you are praying. God may be trying to speak to you in the most unlikely places.

3-21-07