Day 26 - God, The Builder

My grandchildren in England have a favorite cartoon character – Bob, the Builder.  Bob is the architect, the foreman, the carpenter, the cement man, the plumber and electrician.  Bob is the consummate builder.  While missing in some ways, the point is made – watch what Bob can build.

The Psalmist looks at what God has built, or can build.

Psalm 127:1-5

¹  Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
²  It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
³  Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
⁴  Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
⁵  Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

We are all builders.  God created everything and in the midst of creating us, humans – which He made in His own image – he gave that creative energy to us.  Work is from God and it is to be honored.  Yet, here the Psalmist makes clear that there is a work we can do that is good, but also one that will not last.

The Psalmist isn’t saying that we shouldn’t labor, that God is doing the building.  Rather he’s saying don’t get caught up in the illusion that the things we build are more important than God.  Technology has made it possible for us to control more and more of our lives – to the point that we can be deluded into thinking the technology is the end.

No, the end is God.  In the beginning, God worked.  And he still works.  Jesus said so, John 5:17,   “Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working until now, and I am working.’”

Our purpose in work is to remind ourselves of the gift of God that allows us to create and co-partner with him in His ongoing work.

Part of that creative process is our own household.

…children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
⁴  Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
⁵  Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!

Why work?  Relationships and responsibility come to mind.

NOW, what does this Psalm have to do with the pilgrim’s journey to Jerusalem? 

Worship is our experience of saying “thank you” Lord for all you have given to me. Not just the money we earn and spend, but the job we are provided, the family given to us and for whom our work is for, and the ability to have and give.  When we come to worship and celebrate all God has done for us, it includes this need to say to ourselves:

“None of this means anything without your blessings on my life and family – it is truly a work of your grace…thank you Lord”.

Peace