GOOD THINKING: DOING MY FATHER'S WORK BRINGS RESPONSIBILITY

This is my Father's world! This is my Father's farm!

My Father called me in one day. "I have to go on a business trip. I'll be gone for some time. While I'm gone, I'm putting you in charge of this section of my farm. Two fields need to be plowed, disked and planted. Some new ground should be broken. The seed I've selected to plant is in the storehouse. And, be sure and watch those fruit trees; you might need to spray for insects. Finally, several fields might need to be harvested before I return. I'll leave all the arrangements and details to you. You're in charge!"

Sitting there in my Father's office, my first thought was: "Wow! I'm in charge! I can run things my way for a change. Feels real good to have all this power and authority. It's just like being God!"

On second thought: "What if I fail? What if I ruin everything?" I'm not sure I really want all this power and authority!"

Third thought: "Help!"

I realized I had to do something; what were my options?

I could accept the responsibility God had given me! Yes, Father, I will see that the work You have given me to do gets done. Either I'll do it myself or I'll get someone else to do it. I'll be considerate of those who work with me. I know that the only real power and authority I have is what You have given me. I'll be careful how I use Your power and authority. And, I'll make the decisions that need to be made. I'll accept responsibility for what happens. For I know full well, Father, that I will have to answer to You someday.

I could be lazy!

Yes, Father, I will do what You want me to do. And the minute You're gone, I'll put my feet up on the desk, lie back, and take a much-needed rest. I never did like to work. I'll connive and manipulate and con someone else into doing the work. Naturally, when You return, the work will be done and I'll get the credit.

I could care less!

Yes, Father, I will do the work. You notice, I didn't say that very enthusiastically. Really, I could care less whether the work gets done. I'll take care of me, No. 1; nothing or nobody else matters. And when You return, I'll have some good excuse. I don't believe You would really punish me; after all, You're a loving Father. Anyway, who cares?

There will come a day!

The Father will return! He will call each of us into His office. And we will be held accountable for what we have done or not done. The faithful person will be rewarded.

Dr. Don Kuehle of Jackson is a retired United Methodist minister.