Time is flying by, and that has me in a reflective mood this morning.
In three days, the days will be getting longer again. In seven, it’s Christmas already. In fourteen days, we will be in 2026.
I remember being in high school and thinking how far away the turn of the century was. Now I hear kids talking about events of “the late 20th century,” and I realize I’m not even vintage anymore. I’m an antique.
At a celebration for my parents’ 25th wedding anniversary, I remember thinking what a long time it had been since they were married. Now, in just over a year, Kathy and I will hit our 50th.
Where did it all go? What was it all for? A lot of it was probably wasted, still. I hope that some of the time over the past 67 Christmases (68, in a week) will have been of eternal value.
I still think of myself as a “new” believer, but in retrospect, I have been a believer for over three decades. Not all of that time was used wisely.
Fortunately, the Lord loves me and forgives my shortcomings. No one has missed salvation because of anything I did or didn’t do.
In Matthew 23, we read the parable of the talents. The master gives three men responsibility; two are faithful, and one is not.
To the faithful servants, the master says,
“…‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’” Matthew 23:21, 23
I long to hear those words.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m delighted that despite everything, I will be allowed into the Master’s presence by His grace and mercy. That gift was granted to me by faith (and even the faith itself was a gift).
I sometimes joke that I will be at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, but only to bus the tables. Yet, even that is far more than this sinful man deserves. I pray that you too will hear the words well done good and faithful servant.
I know His love, patience, grace, mercy, and faithfulness are real. I have absolutely no doubt in my mind about that.
Yet, I cannot even begin to fathom the depths of those things. I’m grateful for them, even if I don’t fully comprehend.
As we think of that helpless babe in a manger over the coming week, let’s take time to reflect on who He is and what He has done for us.
He is the reason for and the joy of the season.
Be blessed,
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word – Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Some thoughts on living the Christian life
Is it right belief or right living?
Read the Word – that’s where you find the truth
