Today I saw a sign in front of a counseling center which read, “The greatest gift you can give is the gift of time.” Time is of great value and should be highly treasured by both the giver and receiver. Time can be saved, wasted, lost, spent, found, measured and used. I could kill time, watch in prime time, seek some quiet time, make a tee time or simply watch as time flies. I could go on and on. I simply don’t have the time.
Many years ago the members at my former church received a survey called “Time and Talents.” We were asked to donate our time and volunteer our talents so we could become more involved with the church’s growth and its various outreach programs. I was contacted in no time. During my working years time management firms conducted seminars to help increase our sales, performance and productivity. I won’t go into the details but they were a waste of time.
In today’s world time has become a commodity. Everything is immediate and rushed with no time to relax and take that necessary deep breath. Witness the popularity of cell phones, faxes, text messaging and email. What did we ever do without them?
As I reflected on the street sign and its meaning I took exception to the message. Time is certainly to be cherished but is not the greatest gift. A desire to share the Good News with others and support their acceptance of a lasting relationship with Jesus is the reward that trumps all. What greater satisfaction is there than to bring another to Christ and have them receive the gift of grace He promises to all followers? This is the only example of good works I can think of which may allow me to pass through the gates of eternal focus and enter God’s heavenly sanctuary.
Listen to the rebuke Jesus gives the Eleven,
He said to them, “Go into the world and preach the good news to all creation.”
Mark 16:15
Time with God is not a temporary gift but one designed to be lasting and secure. It is given in love and is received with anticipation and gratefulness. I can almost see the Father’s smile as another soul is welcomed into His eternal and loving care.
Time will tell.
Manna and Coffee 