Working at Waffle House

Working at Waffle House

3 September 2025

Dear Friends in Faith,

Waffle House.

The beloved Southern classic eatery might not make the Top 10 list of best family reunion spots. But on the morning of Labor Day, it was the perfect choice. Morgan was driving to the airport after a wedding in Athens, and Luke was hitting the road after our hiking trip to Glacier National Park. An exchange of cars was required, so a quick feast and rendezvous at the Waffle House on National Road worked best.

Anticipating a typical “fast food” experience, we were blown away by our joyful, engaging, on-the-ball waiter—one of the best servers we’ve ever experienced. Next up was the hostess, who came over and asked if we’d like a family picture. She zipped back with one of those classic Polaroid cameras where the film pops out and develops in front of your eyes. Our family agreed—this was not a new Waffle House service strategy, but simply a fun lady determined to brighten people’s day while at work.

Such day-brightening service brought to mind Frederick Buechner’s classic quote about vocation: “Your vocation in life comes from where your greatest joy meets the world’s greatest need.”

Maybe these two exceptional Waffle House wonders were serving there to make money on their way to further education. But maybe it was their permanent gig. Either way, infused in their labors was a joyful determination to lift the spirits of their customers—always a need for travelers, and if not a need, certainly a welcome gift.

Childbirth labor may be difficult and painful, yet mothers persevere, anticipating the joy their labor will bring into the world.

As we wrap up the Labor Day weekend, can we bring joy and spirit into the work God gives us, blessing our neighbors through our efforts? Could that promise yield deeper contentment and pride in our weekly outlooks?

For most of us, inevitably, there will be seasons when work simply feels like, “you gotta do what you gotta do.” But my prayer for family and friends alike is that the Holy Spirit will grant you the wisdom, courage, and opportunity to spend a good chunk of your time in the sweet spot of your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger.

“Whatever you do, do for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31

Questions for Reflection:

1. How might your job lift the spirits of others?
2. If you currently experience a “sour spot” in your work, what changes might the Holy Spirit be whispering for your consideration?
3. If you feel restricted by your 9-to-5 job, how does it allow you to fulfill a calling of passion in other venues?
4. Some argue that older people were brought up to “live to work” while younger people “work to live.” Do you agree? Is one better than the other?

Let us pray.

Dear God, help us remember Martin Luther’s instruction that “the Christian shoemaker does his duty not by putting little crosses on the shoes, but by making good shoes, because God is interested in good craftsmanship.” Comfort us in knowing that, regardless of which highway or hedge you call us to labor in, we can glorify you in our work. Teach us to treat others with the fruit of the Spirit, and to shape our labors with love of neighbor in mind. In Jesus’ name, Amen.