Issue 1,016 – Time Passes – March 29, 2023
Yesterday, our eldest son Kris celebrated his 42nd birthday. He has grown to be a man we are very proud of. He is a husband, father of 4, pastor, servant of the Lord, and so much more.
In this photo, Kris is enjoying his first birthday. It is hard to believe that this photo is 41 years old. Where did the days, weeks, months, and decades go?
Here I am, around the same age as Kris, but about 64 years ago.
Life slips by. When my father turned thirty, I remember he was “so old.” Now, not only have I more than doubled that, but one of my sons is well past that milestone. When my parents celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, that seemed like they were married forever. Now, Kathy and I have nearly double that.
In some ways, it feels like Kris was born yesterday, but in many ways, it was a lifetime ago. So much of life has passed by in those years.
Of all the things that have happened in those years, the best is that Kris, his brother Kyle, Kathy and I have come to know the Lord. Both boys married godly women and are raising their children in Christian homes.
There have been plenty of ups and downs, rejoicing and sorrow, for all of us in those years, but we hold fast to a common faith in Christ. Our joint hope for this life and beyond is kept secure in the hands of Jesus. We were reconciled to God through faith in Christ Jesus. That changed our lives in the short term and for all of eternity. What a blessing!
In thinking of life so far, I remember the Teacher’s words in Ecclesiastes. The author, generally believed to be King Solomon, has seen and done it all. At the end, He shares these words of wisdom,
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
I can look back on my life with few regrets. Oh, there have been plenty of bad decisions, but the Lord has blessed me despite them, and I know that I have been forgiven my sin.
I am astounded at how patient the Lord has been with me and how much He has forgiven me.
Like many people, I think more of heavenly things as I get older. I know God’s timing is perfect, but I don’t want to go home too soon. It’s strange in a way because I know that what waits for me there will surpass everything here, but I’m not ready yet.
If I have any words of wisdom to offer to those younger than myself, it would be to find Jesus early and serve Him with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. It’s hardly new advice, but it is the most profound thing I can offer.
To those my age or older, if you don’t yet know Jesus, find Him and grab hold of Him while you still can. There will be a day when it is too late. Don’t forfeit the blessings that could be yours; eternity is a long time to live with regret.
Let’s live each day as if we will see the Lord face to face because that day is coming sooner than any of us ever thought it might happen.
Be Blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the glory of God alone)
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All contents, “Gleanings From The Word” and “Experience an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Life,” are © 2001, 2023 K.F. “Kevin” Corbin Gleanings From The Word.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
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