My Friend's House

Time is the gift that is often overlooked when it comes to giving to others. It’s something that is not given in large or even moderate amounts in our western society. Every service provided seems to be evaluated on how quickly the service can be provided. But if the service that was needed was time? What would that look like?

As an act of service, time can look like sitting with someone while sharing coffee or tea. It can be a visit that includes reading to someone that is confined to a bed. Sometimes to laugh or cry with someone is a wonderful gift. The point is that you don’t have to always offer a tangible item to express that you care.

Inconvenience

With the gift of time many times comes inconvenience. Our minds want to approach this gift by planning engaging activities and conversations. While this approach may be a good place to start, it can eliminate inconvenience. Wait! Isn’t it good to eliminate inconvenience? Not necessarily.

Inconvenience is often the tool that God uses to teach us patients, thinking of others above ourselves and reminding us that He is not hindered by time. It is inconvenience that helps us see what we still need to work on in our character. It is also inconvenience that may be the most impactful way to show love to our neighbors.

“When you give someone your time, you are giving them a portion of your life that you’ll never get back. Your time is your life. That is why the greatest gift you can give someone is your time.”

Rick Warren

Things to Remember

• Ask God to show you how to spend the time He has given you.
• We all have the same amount given to us by God to steward.
• Time is the most impactful investment you can make in your neighbor.
• Intentionally build in margin in your day to combat the urge to rush past opportunities to engage with others.