Occupation Resuscitation

"Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked." Psalm 84:10

Showing respect for others comes from complete humility. That was the lesson for me today. When at a hair salon, I would always tell the hairdresser that I rarely cared about my hair, that I just wanted to keep it short. Then, the hairdresser would simply cut away in silence. However, today was different. The hairdresser was much more social. She would ask me questions on what I did, how old I was. She would tell me about herself, how long she had been working, her recent breakups and life stories. Maybe I paid more attention, for I thought she was beautiful. Nonetheless, she was done, and I walked away.

At the end of the day, however, it occurred to me that I had completely insulted her. By telling her that I did not care about my hair, I had successfully conveyed my message in that I did not respect her occupation. Perhaps I did not consider her job suitable for the kingdom of God. Such arrogance.

Her occupation may have just as been a gift from God: A royal hairdresser in the courts of Heaven. Who was I to look down upon her? I was but a doorkeeper. The kingdom already had angelic guards and knights. What need was there for a doorkeeper anyways? Perhaps so that I may have something to do, so that I may dwell in the courts of God for whatever reason. I kept forgetting that.

“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” 1 Timothy 4:4-5

I realized that I had this notion of considering literature, art and all kinds of humanities as of lower value. What need was there for music when the man was simply dying of hunger? That, though, was only my limited view, my secular eyes that could not see beyond the mountains. If God had wanted more decorations in his kingdom, how then should I consider it of lesser value?

Every detail of my life should be considered with its utmost respect, especially people. Everyone should be considered precious, even more so than my life. I need to be in more dependence upon God.