As Labor Day approaches, most Americans prepare for a long weekend of rest, barbecues, and back-to-school sales. But beneath the surface of this secular celebration lies a profound question: Should Labor Day be a religious holiday? Could it be more than a civic nod to workers—perhaps a sacred moment to reflect on the divine dignity of labor?
Years ago, a bricklayer named Giuseppe worked building the circular walls inside the manholes for the sewer system in a large Ohio city. Unlike many of his fellow bricklayers, Giuseppe was careful to lay the bricks in such a way as to leave no sharp points or excess mortar that might scrape arms or snag the clothing of workers who would have to enter the manhole in the future. When asked about the perfection of his work that would not be seen by more than a few men over the next 50 or 100 years, the bricklayer explained: “Growing up in Italy, I imagined that I might someday be called upon to work on a cathedral. But this is where God has planted me, and every day I lay bricks as if I am building that cathedral for Him.”
Giuseppe understood that labor was much more than a job. Just as God placed Adam in the Garden “to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). We, too, are to approach labor as a gift from the same God whose work is evidenced in all of creation, from the universe to mankind.
From the opening chapters of Genesis, we read that labor is not a punishment—it’s a calling. Work is woven into the fabric of creation itself. Throughout the Bible, God honors labor:
Even Jesus, before His public ministry, worked as a carpenter. Paul, the apostle, supported himself as a tentmaker. And many of the disciples of Jesus returned to fishing after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Then, after they were filled with the Holy Spirit, they spent their lives taking the Good News throughout the known world.
Labor is not just a means of survival—it’s a spiritual discipline, a way to reflect God’s creativity and stewardship. And, it’s not something we’re called to do until we reach some artificial “retirement date.” The Bible certainly honors rest. The Sabbath is a commandment, not a suggestion. Yet nowhere in Scripture do we find the concept of retirement as a withdrawal from meaningful contribution. Consider:
Biblical figures often do their most impactful work in the latter half of life. The message is clear: age may slow the body, but it need not silence the soul. In all major religions, the importance of labor is emphasized. Each tradition affirms that labor is not merely economic—it’s existential. It shapes character, builds community, and honors the divine.
So, should Labor Day be a religious holiday? Perhaps not in the formal sense of liturgy and ritual—but certainly in spirit. It’s a moment to honor the sacredness of work, to reflect on our calling, and to recommit ourselves to meaningful labor—whether through a profession, volunteerism, mentorship, or prayerful presence.
Even when age or health limits what we can do physically, our wisdom, encouragement, and spiritual insight remain powerful tools. The world needs elders who labor in love, who build with words, who mentor with grace.
Let this Labor Day be more than a break. Let it be a rekindling.
Image by FlowerPower385 from Pixabay
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