Christians are Never Off-Duty

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

In an article titled, "Married off-duty police officers praised for saving runner's life" posted by BBC news last week, it was reported that husband-and-wife duo Liam and Jayne Goodall were hailed for saving the life of 40-year-old runner Oliver Williams. The writer said, the Goodalls were off duty and driving home when they spotted a man face down on a footpath and unconscious in Middlesbrough. Mr. Williams had been out running on 31 August when he fell ill at around 18:15 BST. The couple jumped out of their car when they saw him on the ground in Glendale Road. They spoke to a crowd that had gathered, and realized they were the only people able to offer medical assistance. Ms. Goodall began CPR when she noticed he had stopped breathing, while her husband PC Liam Goodall rang the ambulance service. They both then took turns to carry out CPR, while paramedics arrived and treated Mr. Williams with adrenaline and a defibrillator. He was taken to intensive care at James Cook University Hospital being allowed to recover at home with partner Caroline and their children Esther and Sidney. "I can't thank Liam and Jayne enough for what they did for me," he said. "Without their life-saving actions, I wouldn't be here today. I'll forever be in debt to both Liam and Jayne, they really are real-life super heroes."

And you know, when it comes to being off duty or as defined: not engaged in the performance of one's usual work, the Bible is clear that Christians are always on the clock and should “be steadfast, immovable” and “ always abounding in the work of the Lord.” Now this doesn’t mean that we can’t rest, take vacations, or enjoy leisurely activities only that we are servants of Christ wherever we go and at all times. In other words, we don’t clock in at nine and then off at five but make ourselves able and available to do whatever God calls us to do whenever He calls us to do it. 

So let us stand firm and unshakable in our mission to serve Christ my friend. Jesus is coming back soon. May we be found busy when He returns knowing that our “labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we work for You 24/7. Even if our labor seems in vain to others, help us to know that it’s not. Cause us to work with all that have and with all our might then Lord so that we can all do our part to make heaven full. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!