Work as Worship: Narada's Lesson in Devotion
Work is Worship: The Story of Narada and the Farmer Work as Worship: Narada's Lesson in Devotion Narada was a devoted sage who spent his days chanting Lord Vishnu’s name. He would travel around the world, lost in his devotion, and often wondered if he was the greatest devotee of all. One day, Narada met Lord Vishnu and asked Him if he was indeed the greatest devotee. Lord Vishnu smiled at Narada and said, “No.” Narada was confused and asked, “Is there someone who is a greater devotee than me?” Lord Vishnu replied, “Let’s find out,” and took Narada to a cottage where they found a farmer sleeping. The next day, they followed the farmer as he went about his day, ploughing his fields under the hot sun. Narada was surprised that the farmer had only taken Lord Vishnu’s name three times that day – once in the morning, before lunch, and before going to bed – while he himself chanted Lord Vishnu’s name continuously. When Narada expressed his confusion to Lord Vishnu, the Lord smile