Under The Sun

I’m still at school — I have to do as I’m told by my parents and teachers. When I’m at college and free, then I’ll be able to serve the Lord.

I’m a student — I have so much course-work, and I have to fit a social life in too. When I’m at work, with so much spare time, I’ll be able to serve the Lord.

I’m single. I work long hours, and I have to look after my own home as well. When I’m married and have someone to share the load, I’ll be able to serve the Lord.

We just got married. We need to make space for our relationship. When we’ve been together a while, then we’ll be able to serve the Lord.

A young family is so demanding. When the kids are older, then we’ll be able to serve the Lord.

Now the kids are teenagers — and how wrong can you be! When they’ve flown the nest, then we’ll be able to serve the Lord.

Our parents are elderly, and we both have so much responsibility at work. When we retire, then we’ll be able to serve the Lord.

Honor and enjoy your Creator while you’re still young,
Before the years take their toll and your vigor wanes,
Before your vision dims and the world blurs
And the winter years keep you close to the fire.
In old age, your body no longer serves you so well.
Muscles slacken, grip weakens, joints stiffen.
The shades are pulled down on the world.
You can’t come and go at will. Things grind to a halt.
The hum of the household fades away.
You are wakened now by bird-song.
Hikes to the mountains are a thing of the past.
Even a stroll down the road has its terrors.
Your hair turns apple-blossom white,
Adorning a fragile and impotent matchstick body.
Yes, you’re well on your way to eternal rest,
While your friends make plans for your funeral.
Ecclesiastes 12:1-5 [The Message]

There’s no time like the present.