Faith & Insight: Gift of time: Are you spending it wisely?

Every spring, like clockwork, we come to a Sunday morning which challenges the resolve of churchgoers and those who would be across our great nation. “Spring forward!” Yes, it’s that time of year again. I think the jury is still out as to whether it’s harder for parents to make the change or to convince their children the time change effected by Daylight Saving Time is real. Coffee consumption is never more important.

For years I’ve admired Arizona’s resolve in fighting against the whims of the rest of the nation by not observing Daylight Saving Time. I’ll be ready to move there as soon as I can find that fabled oceanfront property. Then, I’m ready to go at any time!

In the Bible, St. Paul writes about time in his letter to the Ephesians. He says “Look carefully, then, how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand the will of the Lord,” (Ephesians 5:15-17).

Our time is valuable. It’s a nonrenewable resource. It’s comparatively easy to work for more money and learn new skills and meet new people, but our time, once it’s past, is gone forever. The time we have is a gift from God.

One of the greatest gifts Christians have is knowing what the most important use of our time is. We are called to understand the will of the Lord, which, as Jesus puts it, is to make disciples. Making disciples, as I understand it, is teaching people to live like Jesus lived and to trust in him for their salvation. It’s nice to know what to do with my time!

What are you called to do with your time?

Jedidiah Maschke is pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School in Carson City, www.blcs.org.