Be wise in the way you act toward others; make the most of each opportunity. Colossians 4:5
The other day my middle daughter and I were talking about when plans get cancelled you have been given a gift of time. As I’m writing this I was supposed to be somewhere in Eastern Europe. I was headed to places such as Ukraine, Poland, Greece, and other countries. I was going to be doing pastor and leadership conferences there. Because of the pandemic my plans were changed by some of the governments. Don’t get me wrong, I am glad to not get on 15 different flights and work my way through all of the security and customs. Also, I’m especially glad not to be stuck halfway around the world. I am thankful to be in my own home.
When this trip got cancelled she informed me of the gift of time I was receiving which was over 2 weeks. Little did I realize that I was going to have a lot of extra time. My life’s travel plans had been totally altered. I’m sure that your plans have been altered also.
With all of the cancellations (school, sports, church gatherings, work, and many more) we have all been given this gift of extra time. At first I thought it was going to be a gift, now I’m not so sure. Although I know in my heart it’s a gift, I’m not sure how to use it. This extra time can cause thoughts like (spend your time wisely, utilize your time, don’t waste your time, you had plenty of time, where did all the time go). These thoughts can cause anxiety.
If you’re like me too much time can cause a lot of trouble. In this fast paced chaotic world we have virtually no extra time. I become more self-indulgent and my mind takes trips and goes places it shouldn’t go.
I know I now have a lot of extra time so I’m trying to be intentional on how to spend it. Also because of the isolation, which we are not made for, I am going to contact friends and family virtually. I can use FACEtime, FACEbook, messaging, or calling to encourage, comfort, and strengthen those I love. We were created to connect personally, not isolate.
I have also been intentional about spending time with my travel guide (HOLY SPIRIT). He tells me all about my best friend (JESUS). It is so encouraging, comforting, and strengthening to spend time with my best friends. May you also experience their peace. It’s not as the world gives.
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