Commonwealth Policy Center

Today marks the unofficial end of summer. It’s Labor Day, which became a federal holiday in 1894 after the labor movement fought for safer workplaces, an eight-hour workday, fair wages, and the end of child labor. Those goals were eventually realized, but Labor Day also recognizes that we are hardwired for work. This is part of what it means to be made in the image of God. Work brings dignity and self-sufficiency. Through work, we’re able to provide for ourselves and our families. But we’re also hardwired for rest. God worked for six days to create the world but rested on the seventh. So enjoy your day with family and friends and give thanks to God for work, and may you enjoy a day of rest.