Time

As Bostonians mourned the loss of life and limbs, of lost security in their city, shocking news of death and widespread destruction from a small Texas town broke our hearts once again.  A devastating, senseless crime against humanity and a tragic, lethal accident overwhelmed a nation.

At the time of the shattering news, our son & I sat in a hotel room far from home and dear loved ones.  Our surroundings that week, were among people looking for answers and cures to the diseases that plagued a loved one or self. As our hearts broke for the many, many families suffering great losses in Boston, in Texas and across the nation, the gift of time we are given occupied my thoughts.  How quickly all we know today can change in a heartbeat, sometimes our last.

A passage in Luke came to my mind.  Luke 17:26-29:   

Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of  the Son of Man. People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.

It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.

That fateful day as families attended the Boston Marathon; no one could have known how their lives would be forever changed-apart from those involved in the atrocious crime.  Texas First Responders kissed their children and spouse goodbye one final time.

Across the globe, people are dying-caused by violence, disease, accidents, natural disasters and age.  Time is coming to a close for people.  One day Jesus will return and all time will end.

The God of mercy and grace convicted my heart.  Today may be the last morning I awake-He may return or my life may abruptly end.  I must be wise with the time He gives.  How much time do I spend in kingdom work, in day to day activities that have no eternal value?  My priorities need to change.   

Ephesians 5:14-17:  

This is why it is said:

“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Merciful Father in Heaven,

Grant comfort and peace to all who have been devastated by death and destruction.  Thank You for stirring my heart.  May I be Your instrument this day.  Father, give me eyes to see eternal things; give me a heart on fire for the lost; making the most of the opportunities You give, and the time that remains.   Thank you, Jesus, for the eternal hope You give.

In His name, Amen.

Mischelle Oliver

Stephenville, Texas