I was privileged to manage two wonderful wine farms in the Boland for 12 years where I could farm as if these two farms belonged to me. For me, starting and knock-off time weren’t numbers on a clock. No, we knocked off when the work was done. When a fungicide was urgently needed, we got up early, long before the others even opened their eyes.

Actually, the owner and I worked like two partners. He did what he could do well and I could do the work that I could do well. Wow, I really enjoyed myself on those farms!

Later on, when a friend offered me part of his business, I grabbed the chance with both hands. I learnt much about the business world. Cash flow became an emotional matter (I suspect only those who’ve struggled with this will understand what I’m talking about). My friend was like a dad to me and taught me a lot about the business world.

In these 20 years of my life I learned that you cannot cope with stuff on your own. You’re too weak to do it all on your own. You should rather surround yourself with partners and mentors and people who can help you deal successfully with what you take on.

It’s the same in the spiritual world. We cannot live our calling on our own. We will never be able to finish a project successfully if the Holy Spirit was not involved. The Holy Spirit was given to us as a gift to help us live life the right way. But even more, to help us live our calling in the world.

The Holy Spirit is our partner and helper. You see, He does what He does well and leave what we do well to us. Maybe you like talking and telling stories. The Holy Spirit will leave that part to you to do. Maybe it is to do good and to show your faith in deeds. The Holy Spirit will leave that part to you. He will take care of the rest and make sure that the seeds you plant germinate and grow.

It is indeed this continuation of our work that’s not done by us. What wonderful news! God, our Father and partner, takes responsibility for the after-care service. And there is no better person to do the work! ¹²But I have no regrets. I couldn’t be more sure of my ground—the One I’ve trusted in can take care of what he’s trusted me to do right to the end.

The Living Bible translation puts it like this: ¹²… for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to safely guard all that I have given him until the day of his return.

A few years ago, there was a Joshua Doore television advert with the jingle: You’ve got an uncle in the furniture business, Joshua Doore. In the same way, we have a Father in the spiritual business. He will see to it that work we do here on earth does not go to waste. He will ensure that our work bears fruit. Sometimes immediately and sometimes after we’ve left this earth.

Is this not a major motivation to pursue your calling? You have a partner and a Father who multiplies the little energy that you put in. They will do their part! Now you do yours!

Scripture
2 Timothy 1:8-12

Reflection
How do you live your calling?
Is there something more that you can do?
Do you entrust the work to God and to the Holy Spirit?

Prayer
Lord, I was called to work in your Kingdom, irrespective of the work I do or the role I play in the community. Thank you for equipping me to do the work You set aside for me to do. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that guides me and shows me where You want to use me. Amen.