We get paid on the 15th day of each month.

It's sometimes a relief to be in the black again,

To be able to pay those bills and breathe more easily.

I figure that I earned it too.

Not just a nine to five job, but early starts,

Late finishes, and time away from home travelling.

My style is to put energy and passion into work.

Thank you for the privilege of being able to work this way,

And receive the reward.

Some people don't have a job, Lord.

Or in they're in the wrong, or an unsuitable job.

Then pay day becomes a dark cloud, or a missed day.

Help me to be sensitive to their needs,

To be generous of heart and hand, and have understanding.

I don't recall you lining up for pay, Lord.

A fish helped you with taxes. [1]

Your word speaks many times about rewards.

The Psalmist says you reward each person for what he has done. [2]

Isaiah said he had laboured to no purpose,

Yet he knew that his reward was with God. [3]

And you spoke clearly, Lord, about reward to individuals

when you come again in your Father's glory. [4]

Lord, I feel most unworthy when it comes to your pay day.

But I reach out to you in response to your love,

with empty hands - and worship you in wonder,

Because you have invited me to be there -

On pay day.

1.. Matthew 17 v 27. 2.. Psalm 62.v 12. 3.. Isaiah 49 v 4. 4.. Matthew 16 v 27. Copyright Howard Smith 2002.

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