Packets of Time
For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanishes away James 4:14
Like a sudden wind, the sting of death awakens us to reality. Why is not the question, but rather when. As believers, we see the bigger picture in life and still somehow manage to let precious moments slip by us as if they will present themselves again. We are here but for a moment and then we are gone. We have one small window to make our mark on this world for all eternity. Most believers anticipate with excitement the thought of finally meeting the Savior, yet we are not ready for our own family members to do the same. The gift of life becomes one of selfish obsession and I readily admit I am about as guilty as can be when it comes to my family.
Having seen my share of family deaths it always becomes a reminder to me that the fleeting breath of life is precious. We have been shocked to reality in the sudden death of one of our associate pastors and we are reminded once again that tomorrow is promised to no one. As Jen and I ponder the gift of time on this earth we are thankful for each moment; moments like these are a constant reminder that every breath is a gift. Day to day living has the tendency to lull us into complacency and when the unexpected happens, it tends to shock us. The truth of the matter is that we should always be living in the reality of today…and speaking for myself I get lazy and just allow the day to happen instead of actively participating in it. We each have our own little packet of time; some more than others, but each is to use what they have to the best of their ability. There is much work left undone for the kingdom and to quote a famous movie line: we’d better “get busy living, or get busy dying” for our time too is coming to meet The King.
Rejoice, and again I say Rejoice Brother Jim, for your life has only just begun.
I know in all of this there will still be grieving and mourning as it is only natural. But as this was sent to me only the day before Jim’s death, I share it with you.
“If we can understand that death is not the end but is really a transition into the next life, the great part of life; that frees us up into receiving God’s courage and his help.”
-Max Lucado
Give me words to speak…
