ODJ: time and eternity

June 11, 2014 

READ: John 12:20-26 

Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity (v.25).

I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the cello. But I haven’t found the time to take lessons. Since time is short, I would rather spend my time doing the things that I won’t get to do in heaven—stuff like helping a believer to mature in his or her faith or reaching out to someone who doesn’t believe in Jesus. I say to myself, In heaven, I’ll have the whole of eternity to master that instrument!

Perhaps you’ve also set aside some personal pursuits in order to help others. And though you know it’s a good thing to do, somewhere from the back of your mind you ask yourself from time to time: Am I short-changing myself?

It’s understandable that we might ponder that type of thought. After all, time is like a relentless, flowing river moving our lives along with it. We feel the pressure to make the most of the time we’ve been given before it’s gone.

Shortly before Jesus went to the cross, He said these poignant words: “Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity” (John 12:25).

Was Jesus telling us not to enjoy the many good things God gives us in this life? No, He was telling us to relish them with eternity in view. Don’t live for the present. Don’t hold tightly to comforts, pleasure, power, position or wealth. God must always be our top priority. As Jesus said, “Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me” (v.26).

In light of the aeons of eternity, we know that some things can wait, while others can’t. Jesus’ priority was clear. He seized the day to reconcile man to God and to make disciples. How about you? —Poh Fang Chia
Luke 2:21-39 ‹365-day plan