Do it as Jesus would do it!

(J.R. Miller, "Evening Thoughts" 1907)

"Whatever you do, whether in word or deed — do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Colossians 3:17

To do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, is to do it as Jesus would do it, if He were in your place. One may do the lowliest things in a heavenly way — and another may do heavenly things in a worldly way. One may work in the humblest calling — and live a saintly life; while another may be engaged in what is called a sacred calling — and yet may do his work in an undevout manner. A street-sweeper may be more saintly, may live nearer to God, and may be a better follower of Jesus — than a minister who is busy in incessant religious duties.

Browning represents the angel Gabriel taking a boy's tasks in this world, doing the work well, and praising God meanwhile.

We have something finer even than that, however, not in a mere poet's imagination — but in the gospel narrative. Jesus, the son of God, came to earth, lived a human life, and worked at a common trade!

"Yes, yes, a carpenter — same trade as mine,
 It warms my heart as I read that line.
 I can stand the hard work, I can stand the poor pay,
 For I'll see that Carpenter at no distant day!"

"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done." John 13:15

"Leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps!" 1 Peter 2:21