Paul concluded his great chapter on the Resurrection with the climactic charge: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (I Corinthians 15:58-emphasis mine-dk). If every member of the church, because he or she believes in the ultimate victory of the resurrection, would heed Paul’s charge, how many good and glorious deeds would be done each week?
Our nation needs dedicated, devoted disciples, who set a standard in serving. I read last week Tode Tuttle’s statement, “Remember when they didn’t have to use ‘Men Working’ signs? You could tell they were working by watching them.”1 Instead of bright eyes and a spring in their steps, too many approach the duties of the day with sloven spirits and reluctant legs. Students in school seek to slip by rather than try; complain rather than attain; display slackness more than success! Like a cancer, our nation is becoming sick with over-productive cells of “We’ve got it made,” while displaying deep indebtedness to dedication and duty!
Paul’s charge, related to our Redeemer’s resurrection, needs to beat bravely and brightly in the breast of each child of God. Let the Savior’s steps and success stimulate each of His servants to set a standard of service for others to see. Never alter our course or slacken our pace until we can say, “It is finished” (John 19:30)! Consider these words by Perry Tanksley (p.91).

The Climbers
“It’s strange how victories won
Can tempt us more or less
To quit and rest content
With our new-found success.
Complacency sets in
When we some goal have gained,
Though it should make us seek
High goals yet unattained.
Then let’s not rest on laurels,
But seek new heights sublime,
For all were made to strive
And never cease to climb.”

1 Perry Tanksley, Love Gift, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappen, New Jersey, 1971, p.13.