1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (NRSV)
Read 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 on biblegateway.com
Verse 29I mean, brothers and sisters, the appointed time has grown short; from now on, let even those who have wives be as though they had none, Verse 30and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no possessions, Verse 31and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.
Devotion
Paul tells the Corinthians he believes Christ will return imminently. Nevertheless, his discussion of "time" provides us insights, not about chronos (chronological) time, but about significant kairos time determined by God. Paul's words about time and daily life also provide a bridge between this week's psalm and gospel lesson.
Too frequently I focus on daily life circumstances—my family, activities, concerns and possessions. My preoccupation quickly spirals into my trusting in these circumstances. In trusting them, I fail to trust God. Once I misplace my trust in worldly things, I futilely attempt to control and maintain these unreliable, transient obsessions. In prioritizing them, I fail to prioritize God's call for me to serve. I break my relationship with our steadfastly loving God. I do not recognize the opportune kairos time of God's kingdom here and now that Christ brought to all people. I can stop spiraling by trusting God alone.
Prayer
Eternal God, we revere your steadfast love through all times. Although you never fail us, we often fail to trust you. Thank you for sending us your Son to bring your kingdom into our daily lives. Help us to trust only you and work together to serve you above all else. Amen.