Work has always been viewed with skepticism.
The ancient Greeks believed that gods enlisted humans for work and thus devoid of blessing.
Aristotle proclaimed that a genuinely worthwhile life is one that is free from labor. In Greek philosophy, the proper virtue is to be least involved in the tinkering of the material world.
The merits of this orientation somehow seeped into our present consciousness: we tend to view work as necessary evil. We frown upon menial workers and set into pedestal the thinkers and artisans.
God's example is diametrically opposed to this flawed understanding.
Philip Jensen is precise in saying:
If God came into the world, what would he be like? For the ancient Greeks, he might have been a philosopher-king. The ancient Romans might have looked for a just and noble statesman. But how does the God of the Hebrews come into the world? As a carpenter.
Thus, a redemptive view of work is necessary.
I was crafted by the Creator for work to bloom for His glory.
There is no retirement from such endeavor.
