Time and God's Kingdom

I went to the hospital today to visit a man who is in his last days of life. He was asleep so I spent some time talking with the family. Time moves so fast! I'm reminded to slow down and breathe in life after these types of visits. But on the other hand, it reminds me of the urgency I should have to share the life and love of Christ with others.

A few days ago I walked into our high school gym. There is such a unique smell associated with a gymnasium. I was caught off guard by the rush of memories associated with the smell. I was back in my hometown of Ripley, WV at the Ripley High School gym--19 years old. It brought back some fond memories.

Nearly 20 years have past. What does my life have to show for the last 20 years? A wonderful family. An amazing wife and four awesome children. God has blessed so much. But I wonder about my impact for God's kingdom. The clock is ticking. Each year more students move beyond my scope of influence. My children move closer to adulthood.

God, help me in the time you've give me. Use me. I pray that they will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.