Kronos (great sounding word!) is a Greek word referring to the sequential passing of time. We understand time as being linear. We are born at one point and die at another. The two points between these dates are linear.
However, the greeks had another word for time, ‘Kairos’. Kairos refers to time, but in a very different way. It has to do with the quality of time. In the New Testament Kairos represents, ‘the appointed time in the purpose of God’.
This is great news! God is not looking for us to, ‘pass time’, but to make the most of now! You’ll remember the verses in Ephesians,
‘[15] Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
(Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV).
Most of us go through life with two concepts of time. Time that simply passes and time that brings joy and meaning to life. It is the pursuit of Kairos that motivates us most of the time. We are continually looking for that, ‘moment in time’, that will give us a sense of joy and meaning.
It’s a tragedy that we have phrases like, ‘pass the time’, waste time’, and ‘kill time’, as these demonstrate the squandering of something precious given to us by God.
God wants us to make the best use of our time. How do we do this? Firstly, we need to know God. That is the starting point. Secondly, we must set aside time to spend with God. AW Tozer said that the highest thought we can possibly entertain is a thought about God. As we set aside time to seek God we will find these to be the most precious moments in time as God begins to reveal himself to us and we are enraptured by his glory.
So, seize the day and make the most of your time!
Simon Smailus 