"You shall keep the Sabbath, therefore, for it is holy to you." Exodus 31:14
Labor Day, established as a holiday in the United States in the 1880's, was a creation of the labor movement, concerned with the rights and protections of workers. Now, of course, it's a holiday for the last cook-out of the summer, or a day off to shop for school supplies.
Although Labor Day is no longer really about labor, labor laws and the rights and protections of workers are still matters of discussion and disagreement. Think of the debates around the minimum wage, immigrant workers, and affirmative action. Labor Day is a good time to reflect on the meaning of work--and on the original, biblical meaning of "a day off." The Sabbath is a day of rest commanded by God. It's the original "labor law," declaring that everyone needs and deserves a rest from work.
Of course, the joblessness caused by the current recession is providing too much time off for many. But God's commandment to keep the Sabbath is a reminder to both the overworked AND the unemployed: you are more than your job; your worth is not measured by your hourly wage, and the workplace is not the whole world.
Prayer
'Today I pray for your presence and support for all who are out of work. Amen.'
Source: National UCC website- http://www.ucc.org/writers-group/labor-day-reflection.html
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