Done

 Two days ago, my unbelievably healthy father in law went to the hospital to confirm that he was in the midst of a serious stroke. Today, he cannot walk or lift his right arm, his face is mostly paralyzed on one side, and his speech is almost unintelligible. This dear saint, who has celebrated over 50 years in the ministry, is scheduled to preach in a couple of days for an “Anniversary Sunday” in a church in North Carolina. His calendar contains numerous other events that he would have happily and faithfully participated in, but now these events will unfold without him; his life is permanently altered, his stride permanently diminished.

 As a pastor, I hear of numerous illnesses and accidents that change lives forever, but it is even more sobering and thought provoking when it is so “close to home.” Again, I am reminded of the words of the poet... “Only one life, twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”
Did you ever stop to think of what life will be like when someday you are not able to stop to think? The day of opportunity will eventually end for all of us. We may find ourselves at death’s door, or lying on beds of affliction in total dependence on others for the most basic and personal needs.

 The Bible also warns of this coming end of opportunity. The apostle John recorded the words of Christ, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. (John 9:4).” Wise old King Solomon observed, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. (Ecclesiastes 9:10).”

 Time is running out! If you have not made reservations for your eternal home in heaven through faith in Jesus Christ, do it today. If you are a believer and have wasted the stuff of life on frivolous pursuits, “Redeem the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:16).”