No Better Time

World Clock

The sound of the Apostles Creed washed over us as Kim and I stepped into the side door of the church out of the rain.  Everyone was standing in the crowded sanctuary as they affirmed their faith in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit together as Christ's church.

Looks of surprise followed us as we made our way into the church and found a seat in the back.  The kids came in and followed us as we settled into the last pew.  Shock registered on every face as they didn't expect to see us after my heart procedure this past Thursday.

Kim and I looked at each other with confusion as we knew that we had gotten to church a few minutes before service started but found that they were almost finished with the service.

Then Rev. Charles Danheim, who was filling the pulpit for me, said something about the time change.  That's when it hit me…we had forgotten to advance our clocks last night.  It wasn't a few minutes until 11:00 but rather, a few minutes to 12:00!  We had just arrived for the end of the worship service!

I would have been embarrassed except for the dozens of folks who came up to us as the service ended, to shake our hands and say how good it was to see me.  It was a great blessing to see everyone, to hear that they had prayed for me and to see their relief as they saw that I was okay.

Isaiah 61:3 says; "To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair."

Regardless what believers have to face in this life, God will continue to be a source of beautiful blessing to them, the same way that He has been to me and my family in all of our trials, including our most recent.

If the trials of life are getting you down, you can always turn to Christ, who will give your life purpose and a deep sense of joy that you are loved by God who gives everlasting life to those who believe in and follow His Son.  Regardless what time that your watch says, there is no better time for you to follow Christ than right now.