The title of this article is a question we often hear. It is asked about many things, and the answer is not always the same. We might hear "Yes," "No," "Almost," "Not yet," "Just about," "In a few minutes," and numerous other replies. Maybe you have asked or even answered that question today. Children doing their school work might say, when asked if they are done with their homework, "No, and I wish I did not have to do it." They would rather be playing or engaging in some fun activity. Does a Christian feel much the same? When it comes to serving God, studying His Word, attending worship services, telling others about Christ, do we wish like the child? We would rather be doing something else!

When asked if we are done with the work of being a Christian, does our answer go something like this, "No, but I wish I were." For many, just being known by neighbors, family, or friends as a "church goer" makes them comfortable enough to answer "Yes," but let us ask another question. Have the children learned all they will need to know just by doing today's homework assignment? Of course not! They still need to study and grow academically. How about the Christian who has no prayer life, studies the Bible sporadically, and feels being a Christian is more like a chore they have to do? In order for us to grow spiritually, we are told, in 2 Timothy 2:15, we must study. That is an assignment from God's Word just as a child has an assignment from his or her teacher.

Children are told that studying will not hurt them. This is also true of Christians. Just as studying their school lessons will eventually bring children a diploma, the study of God's Word and His assignments regarding how we live our lives will bring us rewards. So the title of this article asks you, "Is the work you do as a Christian done?" The Bible is filled with scriptures giving us the answer to that question. Open your Bible and read some of these passages: Ephesians 6:11-17, James 1:12, Proverbs 16:7, and Philippians 2:1-8.

No matter our physical age, we are never finished being a Christian as long as we are alive on this earth. I am reminded of a true story about a very old Christian lady who was confined to her home because of her frail, weak physical body. Illness made it impossible for her to leave her house, but she still knew there was work for her to do. She kept an updated church directory of the congregation where she was a member, and she prayed daily for each and every person whose name was listed there. She knew their names even if she had never met them. She believed they should be brought before her Heavenly Father as she petitioned for His blessings and loving care for each one of them. Her faithfulness was what James referred to in James 5:16: "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

In our minds, can we hear this elderly Christian answer, should anyone ask, "Are you finished being a Christian at your age?" I believe her answer would be "No, and I will never be too old because, no matter my age, I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13). What a lesson to teach our young people today! -Rt. 2 Box 177, Belington, WV 26256. mrmrsl@meer.net

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