BUYING UP OPPORTUNITIES

"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:16 kjv).

One of the central doctrines of Christian theology is The Fall. As a result of the first sin, creation was corrupted. The law of entropy came in force which says that closed systems* tend to disintegrate; the creation is dying. The Fall is the cause of the predominance of evil in the world; it is why it is so difficult to accomplish the required tasks of life. Truly great achievements require a great amount of energy and sacrifice. We truly live in a fallen world!

Modern translations of the Bible tend to translate this text, "making the most of the time" or "making the most of every opportunity." But these translations soften the intention of the Spirit. "Redeeming" means to pay a price for the freeing of time. It doesn't means just to take advantage of every opportunity that comes along. It means to buy up opportunities. This isn't easy! It takes time, commitment, practice, education, shoe leather, tires, gasoline, and money. At times it will seem like the rewards aren't worth it. Sometimes we will have to wait for heaven to see the results, but we continue on in faith, trusting in God for provision.

The congregation, of which I am a member, recently made a commitment to build a $300,000 gym and classroom annex for this reason. It scares me to do this because we are a small church of modest means, but this step of faith is going to buy up opportunities to work with kids and adults who come to use the gym.

The reason I do this blog is because of Ephesians 5:16. I do not know who will be helped by what is written here; it may only be a few, but if it is only one or two it will be worth it. I will have redeemed the time for them.

What can you do to redeem the time?

Grace and Peace;
Tom

*The earth is not a closed system by itself, but the universe is.