Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1

For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. – 1 Corinthians 13:12

Another school year is here for me. Here in a bit, I will figure out how to be two places at once in an alternative school workshop and bus training. Tomorrow is more bus training. I have two battles going on in me. On one hand, I have this dread because I’m heading back to the grind of work. Yet, on the other hand, I realize that I’m running out of these opportunities. We only get this one lifetime to work for the Lord and do whatever it is that we do “as unto the Lord.” More than dreading work, I dread standing before HIm knowing that I only did the minimum required . . . knowing that I made no attempt to let my light so shine before men.

One day, our faith will be sight. Even our opportunity to have faith is dwindling fast. As soon as we draw our last breath, there will be no opportunities to have faith in God. You and I will either be known as we are known and enter into the joys of the Lord, or we will know exactly how we should have lived without another opportunity. We won’t have to have faith in God, trust in God, or have hope in God. These are all things we have the opportunity to cultivate and develop here on this fallen Earth. We shall behold Him and know that He has us for all eternity, and He had us more than we could ever imagine while we made our pilgrimage during our lifetimes.

I guess I just want to end well. I want to bring as many people to Jesus as I possibly can. I want to help people grow in their relationship with Jesus as often as I can. I want to learn about God in His Word as much as I can . . . because I imagine we will be able to do none of these things in Heaven.

Let us waste no more of this great opportunity.

Lord, You know my heart. You know how easily I get sidetracked. You’ve seen every dumb move and miscalculation I’ve ever made. You know how quickly my flesh, this world, or evil can devour me. I need all the help I can get. Create in me a clean heart, renew a right spirit in me, fill me with the Holy Spirit, and help me walk steadily in Your ways. Bless the work of my hands this next school year as I dedicate them to You this morning. Help all who read this to truly live their lives for You. Amen.