TIME: waits for nothing. Waits for no one. Is said to heal. Is filled with swift transition.
It’s the one aspect of life we cannot turn back and cannot fast forward.
It’s the one aspect of life we truly need to be more intentional about spending wisely.
From tragedy filled wildfires and mass shootings, to the unexplainable transitions of those gone too soon, time reminds us that every moment counts, down to the second.
As we wind down to the final 31 days of this year, what are you (we) doing? Are we caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays? Or are we putting forth last minute efforts to accomplish the goals set forth 334 days ago?
Ecclesiastes 3 informs us that there is a season for everything and a time for every matter or purpose under the sun (Amplified Classic Version). What time is it for you? What is it time for you to do? And I sincerely mean you — not what others think you should or want you to do, but you? Have you considered your purpose? Have you considered the current season of your life?
A quote from one of Bishop T.D. Jakes’ recent sermons simply says “you can’t grow and stay.” This is a simple statement full of power that challenges us. By these words, we are challenged to acknowledge where we are, compared to where we would like to be. By these words we are challenged to make a move. Not just any move. Not just a move to go along with the status quo. We have to make the move of all moves. This move is for the sake of beginning the journey of purpose or continuing along the way. I believe time is an ingredient that blends in well with such a recipe of growth.
As we grow, moving further into active operation of our purpose, we see how time works for us and can be on our side. We find ourselves being more effective and efficient. We find ourselves valuing time as a prized resource. We find ourselves being mindful of every moment, being sure not to aimlessly waste it.
So again I ask, what time is it for you? What do you need to finally start or finish for good? To what habit or toxic relationship do you need to render your final goodbyes? Where do you need to go, or stop going? Does your circle of influence need to shift?
We’re well into the point of being cognizant of time — what we devote time to and what we accomplish with time.
I’m not saying we have to always be on the go because self-care is equally important. If we don’t care properly for ourselves, we won’t ever be able to fully engage our purpose. I am saying pay attention. Be alert. Be aware. We only have one earthly life to live. Let’s live it to the fullest because once those moments in time have passed, there is no turning back.
Rae Karim is an Indianapolis pastor who serves as chapel director at Christian Theological Seminary. She can be reached at rkarim@cts.edu.
