if procrastination were a sport, I would be an Olympic gold medalist.  In fact, I would have lots of medals by now because, unlike other sports, there is no aging out of the sport of procrastination.  One can participate as often and as long as one likes.

Other perks include the fact that I do not need to hire a coach (I already know how to procrastinate and in fact excel at it) and no rigorous training regime is required.  Practicing my sport on a daily basis keeps me in shape, ready to compete at a moment’s notice.  (and with this particular sport I don’t have to worry about my procrastinating or putting off my daily workout – as doing  this is actually part of my rigorous training)

But lately I am thinking this is a sport I no longer wish to participate in.  Psalm 90:12 tells me, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Proverbs 3:28 advises, “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back later; I’ll give it tomorrow’ – when you now have it with you.”

Jesus told His disciples, “As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent Me.  Night is coming, when no one can work.  While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

I want to live with intention and purpose, not with the absence of clarity and calling that procrastination brings into my life.  Ephesians 5:15-16 encourages me to “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

“making the most of every opportunity” – that’s how I want to live!  That phrase is often translated as “redeeming the time”,  which is a favorite phrase of mine.  It reminds me that time is precious, a precious and valuable gift from God and I am not to waste a minute of it.

these words from Etienne de Grellet, a Quaker missionary, often come to mind as I walk my way through an ordinary day:  “I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being; let me do it now.  Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

I think it is time for me to retire from participating in the sport of procrastination. Could be all my “wins” were “losses” in disguise.  No more!

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts  . . . ”  (Hebrews 3:15)

Lord, teach me to listen with my heart, teach me to number my days  . . .

sincerely,        Grace Day