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The value of most experiments is that they are just that, experiments. They take place in a laboratory or other tightly controlled environment in which reality is simulated. Like a pilot or police officer undergoing training in a simulator, there is no real risk. Unfortunately, the experiment I‘ve invited you into, of living 30 days as if they are our last, doesn‘t involve a simulation booth. We are attempting to live “as if” these are our last 30 days, but there‘s nothing artificial about it. Real life keeps happening all around us and to us. Last week, we suggested that most people, when informed they have limited time left, live their remaining time passionately. They recognize that the brevity of life makes it too precious to waste. How true. However, Kerry Shook, the designer of this experiment, then suggests that the second common facet people address when informed that their time on earth is limited is that of their relational world. They tend to make sure people they love know it and they often seek to repair fractured relationships. Forgiveness and restoration become priority words in their vocabulary. That‘s reality, there‘s nothing controlled or simulated in those moments. Within the last three weeks while preparing for this series and during the early days of the experiment itself, our family experienced some major challenges. My dad suffered a heart attack (fortunately, he‘s on the mend), Arlene‘s dad passed away unexpectedly and another close family member also passed away. I led his memorial service last week. In each case, the first thought that went through our minds was, “We are so grateful for relational wholeness. We would not want to face these days if there were relationship fractures or unfinished business.” As these 30 days continue, I‘m learning the value of the words of the Lord‘s Prayer: “Lord, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” I‘m learning the value of Ephesians 4:26 and 27, which says, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” It seems St. Paul knew that unresolved anger or bitterness in relationships is the devil‘s best ammunition. I am also learning the importance of proactive expressions so that should the unexpected happen to me or my loved ones, our immediate, top of mind memories will be of rich love, not of regret. If these were your last 30 days, is there anyone whose forgiveness you need to seek? Is there anyone who needs to hear the words, “I forgive you,” from your lips? Is there someone to whom you need to say, “I may not tell you often enough, but I love you.” I encourage you to take whatever action is necessary for relational wholeness. After all, this is one experiment that isn‘t taking place in a laboratory. - Tim Schroeder is a pastor at Trinity Baptist Church in Kelowna and chaplain to the Kelowna Rockets and Kelowna fire department. Top of Page |
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September 7, 2010, 5:47 am |