He was a carpenter. He had a strong back and skilled hands. In 1933 he worked on the construction of an impressive Gothic chapel. During the construction process, the college called all the workman together regularly for prayer. Included in the prayer were the words: “Teach us to build as for Thine eye alone. . . Accept the work of our hands in this place, all built to the greater glory of Thy name.” From chief contractor to last laborer, the college respected the gifts of each builder; and the builders responded by giving their all to this higher calling.

Now one carpenter was bringing his ten-year-old niece to come, to see. The lofty cloisters arched above me. Never had I seen a church so magnificent. He walked slowly beside me and spoke in quiet tones. He reached out reverently to touch the architectural details. He pointed to grandeur above me. And he led my eyes down low to small carvings in the stone, amusing little touches, the work of skilled masons. I knew I was in a special place. I knew I would never forget this moment.

I still think of my uncle when I sing that old favorite hymn, “Take My Life, That I May Be”. In the second stanza we say, “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.” I think of the hands of all those carpenters, painters, masons and laborers whose hands built that resplendent edifice. I think of their weariness when the hours were long and the burdens heavy. And I think of their joy when the work was done; the thrill of showing it to their children’s children (and even to a little niece).

We each have but two hands. Our hands may not be called to such a grand task, but they are called to serve our Lord. We’re not called to impress others with the work of our hands, but to use them to the greater glory of God. God’s eye alone needs to see what our hands have done. It’s a humbling thought and a pretty big calling!

I look at my lowly hands and I know that my heavenly Father accepts even their modest efforts. For I know He loves me. And I know He loves you, unconditionally.

Judy