ONE KIND OF ROBBER
            Napoleon Bonaparte was quoted as saying, “There is one kind of robber whom the law does not strike at, and who steals what is most precious to men: time.” As we approach the last summer holiday, many are amazed that the year has progressed so quickly. It seems as if we were preparing for the global disaster “Y2K” only yesterday, and before we know it the next global disaster, “2012,” will pass us by as well. Depending upon the situation, time can seem to move as slow as a turtle or as fast as a cheetah. Yet, scientific evidence provides proof that time is constant, ever advancing at the same rate.
          Time is ultimately what we make of it. Even the darkest moments we face can pass us by quickly as long as we maintain faith that God is with us and refuse to remain trapped in the present darkness. The times of pure joy, though quick and fleeting, are collected and recalled at later times similar to how an old miser counts his treasure each night. While some may argue that time robs us of life, the truth is that time creates life. As long as we have time, we are able to experience new events like the birth of a grandchild, a new job that fits our interests and gifts, and epiphanies that grant us a new insight into our relationship with God. Perhaps Napoleon, and many others, had it all wrong. Maybe our great enemy is not time. Rather, Walt Kelly may have been closer to the true answer when his cartoon character, Pogo, declared: “I have met the enemy and he is us.”
         With school back in session and our normal routines replacing the freedom of summer vacations, we should all pause and assess our time management skills. Are we making the most of every moment gifted to us by God? Are our relationships with family, friends and God growing stronger or falling by the wayside?
         There will come a new time, eternity, that will replace our present concept of time. The only one that can exchange our promise of paradise with the curse of damnation is ourselves. So, secure your place in the new time yet to come by accepting Christ’s invitation to become a disciple. Discover the comfort of the Holy Spirit during your joyous times as well as your times of struggle. Grow each day into God’s perfect love. Despite the speed of time, there is a constant that we can either look forward to or attempt to avoid. Some will encounter treasures never imagined while others agonize over what they have lost. The choice on how to use “this time” is yours for the making!
                                                                    Blessings,
                                                    Reverend Scott Pickering
                                                              August 25, 2010