One second. It is nuts when you think about all the things that can happen in one second. According to a google search and the site: bedtimemath.org "With each second that ticks by, around the world 4 babies are born, 2 people die, Earth travels 18 1/2 miles through space, and the International Space Station travels 5 miles around us. In that same second, an unbelievable 20,000 cans of Coca-Cola are sold, along with 9 iPhones. 4 thousand stars are born across the universe."
Seconds could mean the end of a relationship or it could mean a new life for someone. When you are finished reading this, there will not be any final resolution, but what I hope to accomplish with this writing, is that you will think about your actions and your words. I admit that I rank at the top of those people that fly off the handle or get my feelings hurt way too easily. My shortfalls in the area of grace towards others are a simple matter of spiritual maturity and keeping my focus on Jesus. But, through prayer and studying God's word, I am getting better (I hope). I am always reminded of Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. When we seek the kingdom of God, we see and treat people differently, we order our inner life differently, not because of anything we did, but because of Jesus and what he is doing in and through us.
The idea of one second came to mind one day when I was at work and I noticed how some people were talking about how bad the day is and some was talking about how good the day is. So, I thought, "We all get the same seconds. Everyone has the same amount of seconds. So, maybe the problem is perception and focus?" The second before I meet someone new, I have the ability to make a difference in that person's perception of the second that we experience together. Just because I am a Christian doesn't mean that my perception of every second is always right, but I pray that if my perception is based on the foundation of God's word then I can make a difference. I hope that last part makes sense. As a parent of a 19-year-old and two almost 15-year-olds, then I see the seconds that I experience with them zipping by at light speed, but of course, that is my perception, haha! I am sure at times their perception is that time doesn't go fast enough. So, I will end with this advice, pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) and through the power of the Holy Spirit, keep your focus on Jesus.
In Christ Alone,
Anthony
