now is the time

Jacob of Serugh talks to us today in A Year with the Church Fathers. He's talking about coming in late for mass, but what he points to is pertinent for everyone who follows Jesus, regardless of what church you attend.

He says that now is the time for us to get things right with God, and to do good for a heavenly reward. It brings to mind the old saying that "Life is what happens while you're making other plans." This is the life we're given, my friends. We need to make the best use of our time that we can.

Is there some sin that has you wrapped up? Ask for His help. He can free you, so you can enjoy your life and do good in it.

Are you struggling with making time for prayer? What more important thing can we do with our time than be with our Creator? Every moment we spend with Him makes us better people. That's why we're instructed to "pray without ceasing". Not because He needs our prayers... but because we so desperately need Him.

Do you have priorities that include visiting the sick? Spending time with those in prison? Feeding hungry people? Jesus made it pretty clear that whenever we do this for anyone, we're doing it for Him. And when we fail to do it, we are failing to help Him. Let's not neglect our Savior, whom we can find every day in the poor.

These words I'm writing tonight grab at my own heart. They remind me to stop wasting time, and make a difference in the world. If we all do that, what would the world look like tomorrow?

God, please help us make good use of the time You've given us.