Fullness of Life

Ephesians 5:15-16 "Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

Thomas Edison once said, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.Take advantage of new opportunities to strengthen your faith and create meaning in your everyday life.” 

A piano sits in a room, gathering dust. It is full of the music of the masters, but in order for such strains to flow from it, fingers must strike the keys… trained fingers, representing endless hours of disciplined dedication. You do not have to practice. The piano neither requires it nor demands it. If, however, you want to draw a beautiful music from the piano, that discipline is required.… You do not have to pay the price to grow and expand intellectually.

The mind neither requires it nor demands it. If, however, you want to experience the joy of discovery and the pleasure of plowing new and fertile soil, effort is required. Light won’t automatically shine upon you nor will truth silently seep into your head by means of rocking-chair osmosis. It’s up to you. It’s your move.

This is an instruction from Scripture we should take each opportunity seriously for each moment is precious. Our days are gifts of time that we should use wisely in order to make their best of each opportunity. This doesn’t mean we spend every waking second in Bible study. That is an unrealistic spiritual solution. What it does mean is that we don’t waste our lives on foolish endeavours or holding grudges. We seek the Lord, love others, and give our lives to His kingdom. 

A prayer from St. Teresa of Avila (1515-1582) O my God! Source of all mercy!I acknowledge Your sovereign power.While recalling the wasted years that are past,I believe that You, Lord, can in an instant turn this loss to gain.Miserable as I am, yet I firmly believe that You can do all things.Please restore to me the time lost, giving me Your grace, both now and in the future, that I may appear before You in “wedding garments.” Amen.