Understanding the time
EPHESIANS 4:1-6; PSALM 23; LUKE 12:54-59
“You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” (Luke 12:56). Jesus is not criticizing them for their ability to read the weather, but for their inability to recognize that the person speaking to them is the prophesied Messiah. Knowing the time can help us understand better how to live for Christ and serve Him in our daily lives.
The sons of Issachar understood the times; however, Jesus chastised His people for failing to discern the times, and Paul cautions us to do the same in Romans 13:11–14. “Do this while keeping in mind the hour, for it is high time to awaken from sleep, for our salvation is now closer than when we first believed”.
If we are not careful, we too could become quite adept at reading only the physical indicators and ignore the spiritual. We replace the oil in our automobiles, stick to our budgets and diets, yet we ignore the indications that tell us to clean up our spiritual life.
Beloved in Christ, we must develop the ability to understand current circumstances and recognize every opportunity for repentance and increased holiness in relation to Christ.
Speaking on the unity and maturity in the body of Christ, Paul exhorts us to live a life worthy of the calling we have received. He says; “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Good behaviour is the best sign or indicator of the Christian faith today.
LET US PRAY
Oh Holy Spirit direct our actions and bring our conducts under you divine influence. Help us to understand the time and give expression to Christ in all things. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
