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Key Bible Verse: I will gladly spend myself and all I have for your spiritual good (2 Corinthians 12:15). Bonus Reading: Acts 20:18–24

After a week full of interruptions, I was about to take the overnight train to Washington. I'd allocated a half hour each to eat supper, pack and change, and read out loud to Marian.

The phone rang. Paula and Debbie, daughters of our friends, wanted to talk. I suggested Wednesday evening of the next week, my first open time. "But I have to see you tonight," Paula replied.

I told her about having to catch the sleeper, but knew we should see her. Since her parents were away, we drove to Paula's home to pick her and Debbie up. Impatient, I immediately asked, "What's the problem?"

"Last night I dreamed I died and I knew I wasn't ready." Paula answered. "I was afraid, Mr. Emery, because I've never been born over again."

"And what's your problem, Debbie?" I asked.

She replied, "I've never been born over again either." That night in front of our fire both found Jesus Christ as Savior and Friend.

We drove them home, aware that I'd have to skip supper and time with Marian. As we headed back, Marian asked, "Was it worth it?" We laughed, realizing that time is either a tool or an idol.

—Allan Emery in A Turtle on a Fencepost

My Response: To keep my schedule from muscling out human needs, I need to …

Thought to Apply: We hurt people by being too busy. Too busy to notice their needs . …to listen when someone needs to talk. Too busy to care.
—Billy Graham

Adapted from: A Turtle on a Fencepost (Word, 1979).

Prayer for the Week

Eternal Father, time and eternity are one and the same to You. Help me align them in my life.

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