Does it ever fell like time is speeding up? Neurologists explain this phenomenon as a function of our brains storing fewer new memories. But if we do something new or out of the ordinary, our brains take notice, and our perception of time slows down. For example, I remember seeing our Pastor Emeritus, Lester Collins in his later years coming through the office with a guitar. He was learning to play from Joel Winters, one of our ministers. While Joel taught Lester guitar, Lester’s life spoke volumes to Joel. This makes me smile!
This brings us to the story of Abraham’s life. He was now very old. Abraham was not just old, but very old. What was his story? The Lord had blessed him in every way. Abraham had not missed any blessing from God. His long obedience in the same direction had led him through many, many blessings from God. But there was one thing that remained. Abraham had to help his son find the right wife but stay in the promised land. So Abraham called upon his servant to make a promise that he would not let his son marry a daughter of the Canaanites. The servant was pledged to go back to Harran and Abraham’s people to find a wife for Isaac.
As you look out into the future, what remains to be done? Sometimes, we may feel that our work here is completely done. But we are still here. Lester told me once about his mother mowing the yard in her eighties. Then one day he went to her house and found her weeping. When he asked her why, she explained that all her friends had preceded her in death and gone to heaven. Lester comforted her and said, “So why are you crying?” She replied, “I’m afraid they think I went to the other place.” We are sure Mrs. Collins ended up in the right place!
We are here today because God put us here. Our God who transcends time always knows what time it is in our lives. Time neither speeds up or slows down in his presence. He has us here right now for a purpose. Today we can pray, read his word, walk his way, and tell his story. Our lives, like Abraham’s, will affect the future generations. Ask God to show you his purpose for you today. When he shows you what it is, do it!
