Completion

Doesn’t it give you a good feeling to complete a project or a task? There’s satisfaction in finishing something, especially if it turns out well. I enjoy preparing a special meal or writing a poem or reading a good book or finishing a craft project. It’s rewarding to see things reach completion.

But some projects are never ending. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “A woman’s work is never done.” It’s also true that a parent’s work is never done. Or a teacher’s. Their work is ongoing because there is always more to be shared and learned.

When I sent my first child off to college, I almost panicked. I thought, “What if I didn’t teach him everything I should have?” But it was time to let go and let him learn some things on his own. That didn’t mean my job as a mother was finished. It just meant that my teaching role shifted a little. Well, actually a lot! Now that my children are grown up, I’d like to think that I still have something to contribute. They are helping me more than I help them. But I still can impart some wisdom and perspective. And I pray for them and for my grandchildren every day. There’s probably nothing more important I can do for them.

Do you know that God’s work isn’t finished either? There was a saying that was popular a few years ago. It said, “Please be patient. God isn’t finished with me yet.” People wore it on tee shirts and wristbands. It was based on one of my favorite scripture verses: Philippians 1:6. Paul wrote to the Philippian believers, “I feel sure that the one who has begun his good work in you will go on developing it until the day of Jesus Christ” (J. B. Phillips). So the work will be completed someday, thank God. But not yet.

What is God doing in you now that is moving you toward completion? We’re not perfect yet. But let’s not use that as an excuse to be lax in pursuing what the Lord wants for us. How is His construction project going in your life?