Long and dark is the night. All is quiet, as our family and those we love sleep peacefully. It is for this moment we were made – to do the unseen work – the watchman who keeps his post so others live unburdened.
We look ahead to consider the needs of our family, and spend countless hours to move things forward. We take on the weight of responsibility so others do not have to worry – praying, fasting, and interceding on their behalf.
Like Christ, many times our souls are troubled in these dark nights, and part of us wants to pray for God to save us from these moments. But we remember we are here for such a time as this, and that God will use this to bring glory to his name.
Of course, this does not minimize the cost. We’re still exhausted, weary, and worn. But it’s a cost we’re willing to bear to bring life and goodness to those God has entrusted to us. And while it’s easy for resentment to grow when our work goes unacknowledged, we must remember that God still sees our night work and will reward us accordingly. Our commission is from him, and it’s his approval we seek above all others.
In fact, our night watches are but a small reflection of God’s care and protection over us. He is the living God who never sleeps or slumbers, but works to provide us with everything we need for life. And perhaps we don’t thank him enough for all he does on our behalf.
But our work also gives us a glimpse into his joy. It’s the quiet joy of knowing our chosen sacrifices bring life to others, even when the cost is high and the work goes unseen.
Some of our most important work happens while others sleep. And tomorrow we must decide whether we will do it again.
