By Pat
I often think of how quickly time goes by, and wonder if, at this stage in my life, I have wasted my youth on things that were not what God would have wanted me to do. I'm certain I have not utilized my God-given talents on God-chosen tasks, and I view the future with resignation, not joy. After all, I'm past my prime. What can I possibly offer God now?
God view us differently. He created each of us uniquely, and He knows not only what our talents are, but when to use them. And unlike flowers, we can bloom at any age, many times, all throughout our lives. Timing is everything, and God's timing is always perfect if we trust in Him and allow Him to use us as He sees fit. The Bible is full of examples of God surprising someone who thought they were past the age of making a great difference in His kingdom on earth. Just look at Abraham and Sarah! Who could have predicted the wonderful turn of events in their waning years, and the impact it would have?
In John 2:1-10, we learn of the first recorded miracle of Jesus: the wedding in Cana. After the wine had run out, Jesus turned water into wine. The master of the banquet didn't know where the new wine had come from, and he called the bridegroom aside to compliment him; "Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best for last." (John 2:10)
God is a God of surprises, so never be discouraged that your prime time to serve has passed you by. Who knows what God has planned for your life, and when? Perhaps, like the wine in Cana, He has saved the best for last!
Pat is a good friend who is passionate about her faith and her family. She works from home supporting a family business, and loves to read, write and garden when she can, and spends every spare moment with her grandkids.