Absolved

When did everyone start saying “Time is a thief?" Where does it come from?

I see it tagged with hashes marking kid photos, engagement pics, and family-filled group shots.

What exactly is being thieved, and why is time the primary suspect?

I do not understand.

Time is a natural resource and a power tool for growth and forgiveness. Time is life and love and space to learn. Time is a GIFT.

DIstraction is a highjacker. I'll give you that.

Laziness is a cheat.

Foolishness is a swindler.

Death is a dang liar and a thief.

But time? Time is a trustworthy measure for everything passed.

Not only is time generously filled with opportunity, but it can still be amply filled to the brim with intentional rhythms of diligence and rest.

Time is a commodity known for its equity and commonality and yet mysteriously laced with individualized freedom and the privilege of perspective.

For the dad battling cancer … time with his kids is an answer to prayer.

For the marriage in a strain … time to seek and find resolution is a gift.

For the mom watching her daughter walk down the aisle … time shapes the moment into a prism of beauty and joy.

To that which is unaffordable … time speaks possibility. To the heartaches in our past … time softens the edges. To our dreams for the future … time offers hope.

Time is a gift.

If you miss your kids being little, then maybe just say that. But surely you wouldn't trade their childhood for the glorious adventure that maturity brings!

Babies are scruptious. Toddlers are a blast. Children are the most entertaining people in the world. Young adults are smart, hilarious, and complex.

But raising humans is about seeds and nourishment; identity, shoots and shade; blossoming bounty and maturation. All of these gifts occur in and with TIME.

The precision and fullness of God-ordained time.

No thievery.

Just. Honest. Gain.

A rich gift to be invested and enjoyed.

Somebody make a hashtag for that.

Please.