DAILY- HOMILY

ISLE OF LATER
Contributed by Marion Smith
Jun 8, 2007

Sometimes we isolate ourselves on our own personal island, doing what
we deem necessary to fulfill our lives. We get caught up with meal
preparations, household chores, driving the children here and there,
or spending extra hours pursuing our careers.

Recently I heard a sermon titled "The Isle of Later". As we sit on our
island of what we think is important, many ships of opportunity come
by, beckoning us to jump aboard and participate in their endeavor. We
usually have good intentions. Saying" Oh, yes, that's a good cause...
I'll do it later." I'll sing glorious songs to the Lord in the
choir... later, when the issues in my life are not as demanding ; I'll
teach Sunday school, minister to the elderly, be a coach, cook a meal
for the needy, write a note of thanks to my minister or a friend, be a
good listener to someone in need, or share the gospel story to
someone... yes, I'll do it later ! When I have more time to give to
these things.

Well, my husband and I have been to five funerals in the last month,
and for these folks there was no later. Each died suddenly, not having
time to "do" things of great importance which were probably on their
"to do" list. These funerals have made me take a second look at what I
deem meaningful. The first and foremost important thing is my
relationship with God. Then, I want to spend my time wisely - using it
in matters of eternal value. I want to show my love and respect to my
husband, nurture my children and grandson with God's love, extend
grace and mercy to those I encounter, pray for myself and others as I
am led by the Lord, and invest my time here on earth sharing God's
love and the gospel of Jesus Christ. I want to shed the superficial,
let go of the non essential, and discard the selfish. From this day
on, my desire is to live each day as God directs me. If I do that, I
know I will be on the right path.

How about you? I hope it doesn't take a funeral to jar you into the
reality of the brevity of our time here, and the opportunity we have
to use our time wisely - according to God's will. It may be time for
all of us to reevaluate the priorities in our lives. Ask God today for
direction. He will keep you off the Isle of Later.... Living each day
for Him now !

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