The Daily Devotional
Monday, December 23, 2024
The Stewardship of the Stable
Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters. (Colossians 3:23)
Introduction
In this passage, Paul reminds us that even the most ordinary tasks can become extraordinary when performed with a heart set on glorifying God. Whether we are tending a stable, preparing a meal, or ministering in our communities, every act becomes a sacred offering when done with intention and gratitude.
Reflection
The daily routines of caring for horses—mucking stalls, refilling water troughs, and picking hooves—might seem mundane or tedious. Yet, these chores are vital for the well-being of the animals entrusted to us. Each task mirrors the ways in which God cares for us, removing the "debris" from our hearts and giving us fresh strength for the day.
Imagine a horse left untended, standing in a stall that hasn’t been mucked, or walking on hooves filled with stones and mud. Its discomfort would be apparent, and its health would soon decline. In the same way, when we neglect our spiritual lives, our hearts become cluttered, making it difficult to walk in faith. Mucking a stable reminds us that no task is beneath us if it serves a higher purpose. Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, demonstrating the humility required of true service. In our daily "mucking," we follow His example, not for glory but for love.
A seasoned horse trainer once told a young apprentice, "You can tell how much someone loves their horse by how clean their stall is." The apprentice, eager to show his skills, worked tirelessly to ensure the stalls were immaculate. Over time, he realized that his care for the stable was a reflection of his gratitude for the bond he shared with the animals. His love for the horses deepened as he recognized that the mundane tasks connected him to the Creator, who gave them life.
In the same way, God calls us to see Him in our everyday tasks. Whether picking out hooves or sweeping the barn aisle, we have an opportunity to honor the One who gave us the ability to serve.
Application
Today, approach your tasks—no matter how humble—with a sense of purpose. Reflect on how each act of care reflects God’s love in your life and in the lives of those you serve, including your animals. Use your time in the stable to pray, meditate on Scripture, or simply thank God for the opportunity to steward His creation.
As you pick out your horse’s hooves, consider the ways God cleanses your own life. Are there “stones” of bitterness or distraction you need Him to remove? Invite Him into your work and ask Him to reveal Himself in the details.
Conclusion
Caring for a stable may not seem grand, but it is a sacred opportunity to practice stewardship and humility. God sees your labor not as a chore but as worship. As you clean, care, and restore, you are reflecting His love for all creation. Let your work be an act of praise, for in serving His creatures, you serve Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of creation and the animals You have entrusted to my care. Help me to see You in the daily tasks and to approach them with a joyful heart. Remove the debris from my own life and guide my steps, just as I care for the paths of my horse. May my work reflect Your glory and my gratitude for Your many blessings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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