Labor Day

            The first Labor Day in the United States was observed on September 5, 1882, in Boston, by the Central Labor Union of New York.  It became a federal holiday in 1894, when, following the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of  the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals during the Pullman Strike.   President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with the labor movement as a top political priority.  Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike

            Dozens of people have been killed and many more injured in strikes throughout the years since.  Most strikes are less violent.  The struggle between business and labor continues, however, as evidenced by the Verizon strike which ended a couple of weeks ago. Without doubt the union movement has elevated the status of workers and gained great benefits for them.  A forty hour week and a living wage is their legacy.  But opinion is divided over them.  Cheaper labor overseas is a challenge to US businesses.

            Paul said, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.”  (2 Thessalonians  3:10)  This was to counter those who were taking advantage of the early church which had all things in common.  Today there are millions in our country who want to work but cannot find a job.  This labor Day we need to thank God for improved working conditions in our generation, and petition Him to guide our leadership to find the way to economic recovery and job creation.  And we need to pray for and help those who are unemployed.

            In spite of present circumstances, as I look around the world, I’m thankful to be an American and understand why so many want to come here for a better life.

Grace and peace.