There is an old anecdote that goes something like this:
A guy, Joe, who was more than a little lackadaisical (more like lead in his britches and no "unction in his gumption") finally came to the realization that his life was at a boring stand still.
He decided to go for some counseling, of the no cost variety because he was unemployed, which he had been most of his life, and by his own choice.
His pastor listened to his tale of woe, concluded it was mostly of his own making, and gave him the following sage advice: "Go home and read your Bible. It will tell you what you need to do."
A few weeks later, the pastor saw Joe walking up the street, clothes pressed, a spring in his step and a new light in his eyes. Curious as to what had occasioned such a noticeable change, the pastor met up with Joe and asked him, "What happened?"
Joe replied, "Well, I just did what you told me. I went home and got out my Bible. I didn't know where to start so I sort of let it fall open near the middle, and don't you know that at the top of page after page after page was the word,"job, job, job, job" - I mean it just hit me like a ton of bricks. It said to go get a job.
I did, and boy has it set me going in a better direction."
Job: (rhymes with Bob)) a service, role, or activity performed for a set wage.
Job: (rhymes with robe) a person in the Bible who was known for his patience in the light of many losses and much suffering.
Joe: a goomba who didn't a have a clue in life, confused the two above and turned out okay in spite of it.
# # # # #
I don't know about you, but I have had a job or two that required the patience of Job. Working with people who over-promised and under-delivered. Dealing with customers who thought I should be able to sort out all their problems, even those which had nothing to do with the goods and services my employer offered.
All of the country seemed to cheer as one, when one country singer wrote a song entitled "Take This Job and Shove It" - crudely put, to be sure; but apparently it struck a psychic common nerve.
I was reminded of all of this today when my son, K., called to tell me of the day's happenings at the rural high school where he teaches. After being off ill for a year, (not to mention being paraplegic and a double amputee using a wheelchair) he returned this week with high hopes, and great anticipation.
He works with the toughest students, in a difficult setting, in a poor rural school; but he is so thankful to have a job! Even when it requires the patience of Job.
# # # # #
Life itself is a job that often requires great fortitude and patience. I just hope that I will remember more often to be thankful for the jobs life gives me, and keep in mind that in the end God blessed Job more than double all he had lost.
Hope your job, if you have one, isn't too trying today. If you don't have one, and need one, praying a good door will open for you. Meanwhile, you might take a look at the book of Job. It is a marvel all by itself.
Until next time...Marsha
