The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.

John 8:29 (NIV)

The avodah life of work, worship, and service centres on Christ.

It is a life fully surrendered to His Spirit that leads and guides us throughout our day. This means that we don't have to worry about competing or conflicting priorities. When everything we do is an act of worship, we are able to move effortlessly from one activity to the next because our intrinsic wholeness and worth are connected to our authentic relationship with God.

Too many people rely on their work to give them their identity.

As a child of God, our identity in Christ gives us freedom to work and be productive for His glory and the good of others. If we are frustrated or overwhelmed by work, Jesus invites us to take His yoke and learn from Him (Matthew 11:29). He will give us the power to work according to the rhythm of His grace.

Throughout the four Gospels, we see Jesus doing His Father's will in between all the interruptions. Rather than resent them, Jesus decided to serve his Father and “always do what pleases him.” This vital relationship between Jesus and God the Father highlights the significance of our relationship with Him. We are all included into this relationship of perfect love. This makes it possible for us to align our attitude and actions with God's will and to live a life that demonstrates His love in so many wonderful ways.

When we find our greatest satisfaction in God alone, then we are most satisfied in whatever we do. This is our joy as sons and daughters of God — not because of our work, but because of our Father working in and through us.