Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd

It can be easy in our fast-paced culture to lose track of the original meaning of holidays — just think of the mall at Christmas, for example.

Secular holidays are no different. Labor Day — tomorrow, Sept. 1 — is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. But a casual observer might conclude it was developed by a consortium of stock-car sponsors and major breweries.

Even though it's not at all "churchy," Labor Day is significant for Christians. After all, following Jesus can be hard work. Many of us are called to jobs (both paid and unpaid) that put Jesus' words into action, whether we minister to the poor, bring food to the hungry, care for the sick or share God's love with the children of another nation. And all of us are called to do the hard spiritual work of figuring out where God wants us to go and how we need to get there.

So go ahead and have a burger off the grill, listen to a race on the radio and even spend some time on the lake. But also take a moment this Labor Day to reflect on your own labors and how they can bring you closer to God. Even though we are not saved through our works alone, Jesus showed all of us the importance of walking the walk, not just talking the talk.

Sunday, August 31 Check the server schedule.

• 8:30 a.m.: Holy Eucharist, Rite 1
• 9:45 a.m.: Sunday School
  • Godly Play: Children through age 10
  • Rite 13: Ages 11-13
  • Good Shepherd and the Planet: Ages 14 and up
  • Good Shepherd and the World: Good Shepherd Town Hall
• 11 a.m.: Holy Eucharist, Rite 2