“Be very careful, then, how you live — not unwise, but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15-16
Last evening as I left my office, I was struck by a glorious sunset, a sassy kaleidoscope of vivid lilac and bright pink. I faced the color, letting it wash me in its golden glow. But suddenly, just as the color was at its peak… it vanished.
As I got into my van, I remembered a thought by Amy Carmichael, “We will have all of eternity to celebrate the victories and only a few hours before the sunset in which to win them.”
Like a sunset, life will soon be over in a flash. All the color and glory that we now enjoy will one day suddenly vanish. When standing on the other side of eternity I wonder if we will be amazed that life went by so quickly. I suspect that at that time we literally will not have time to think about it.
That’s why we must think about it presently and realize there are timeless moments to be lived right now. A smile for the gas station attendant. A pleasant “God bless you” for the woman at the market. A hug for your spouse, straight from the heart. Prayers offered in spirit and truth.
Amy Carmichael would call these victories — and there is little time to collect these, the small victories. The days are fleeting, the hours are evaporating. Before you know it, our chance to prove our love for Jesus will fade. The sun will have set. So hear the echo of Paul’s words and make the most of every opportunity.
Dear Father, sometimes I live as though this life will go on forever. I realize that it will not, so help me today to live timeless moments for Jesus. Help me to win victories, no matter how small, for You.
