For Your Reflection (Bulletin Article for April 16)

Often we hear it said that time passes so quickly. James reminds us that our lives are but “a vapor,” and then he explains that a vapor just “appears for a little time, and then vanishes away” (James 4:14).

Those of us who are parents (even new parents of now 6-month-old proofs of God’s providence) realize the value of each moment. Some people can bring that lesson home better than others, though. Please read the following short article. It has so much depth, but it will mean even more when you see who wrote it. It is entitled “My Sons, No Longer My Children.”

His name is “Time.” He’s a stranger we would like to ignore but cannot avoid, an intruder from whom we cannot protect our families. For years our family has been
blessed by three wonderful sons! But, now, one has been married for several years, a second is to marry in a few days, and a third is soon to make his way to college. What happened?

“Time” paid a visit to our house, took our boys by the hand, and escorted them into adulthood. That has a way of sending one’s thoughts down memory lane. So, if you will, indulge the sentimental reflections of an ole dad when I look back on yesterday:

I’m glad that we, as a family, took the time to say, “I love you.” There is something special about those words. I’m glad that we, as a family, went to elementary plays, summer baseball games, high school football games, etc. What memories! I’m glad that we, as a family, went to Bible School and worship without fail. It gave us something to stand on and stand for. I’m glad that we, as a family, learned the value of hard work. That’s what helps any of us rise above the ordinary. I’m glad that we, as a family, took the time to laugh together. At best, life is serious and
difficult, but “a cheerful heart is good medicine.” I’m glad that we, as a
family, prayed together. How is it possible to work through life without talking
to, without being close to God? I’m glad that we, as a family, have been and
still are the best of friends!

His name is “Time.” He’s a tough rascal to deal with, but one thing can help: beautiful memories. Not even death can erase the pictures of happiness a family helps paint on the canvas of one another’s heart!

What a great reminder of the need to take advantage of each moment. Jesus understood such. He said that He had to work while it was “day” (John 9:4). The same is true for us.

It saddens and sickens me to see families neglect each other. It makes me truly sorrowful to see children whose parents are always out with friends or playing golf alone instead of being dad and mom. It hurts me to see brothers and sisters who do not get along.

Having lost a grandparent recently, the one thing I wanted was more time. I know that’s selfish, but I couldn’t help it. The same is true with my little family. Each moment together is special.

After all, we only have so many moments.

So, who wrote the article about time? Our grieving brother, Dan Winkler. Makes you think, doesn’t it?