Kairos Moments

It is interesting to me how some words have several different meanings when traced back to their origin. For example, I was recently reminded of the definitions of Time. I've been chewing on this a bit, and I thought I'd share with you all. So, I guess this is me spitting out my cud...

When we think of time most often it takes on a chronological meaning. We set a meeting time. Events take place at a certain time. There are certain amount of hours in the day. Minutes. Seconds. The clock reliably ticks on. The sun rises, sets and begins on the same schedule tomorrow - like clockwork. And taking for granted the faithfulness of it all, we go about our busy lives.

The ancient Greeks had another option for the meaning of time. In addition to chronos, they referred to Kairos time which takes on special significance. Kairos is not just a moment in time but rather an opportunity of time. It is making the most out of the moments of time we are given.

My dear hunting friends, let me illustrate it to you this way... How many of us can remember a moment in time when the opportunity of the shot presented itself, only to slip away leaving you with an arrow securely knocked? (Or for me the arrow buried in a nearby pine tree.) We want that moment back. However, it is gone. Just as quickly as the moment presents itself, it is carried away by the breeze now kissing your face and whispering "you missed it."

The Greek mythological god, Kairos, was described as a god of the "fleeting moment." Cleverly depicted by a long tuft of hair on his forehead proceeded by a smooth bald head, Kairos illustrated the idea of grasping on to a moment the instant it is presented. And as the moment passes, if you don't seize the opportunity there is nothing left to grasp on to.

I think God sprinkles Kairos moments throughout our lives. God waves the conductor baton, smiles and orchestrates an opportunity for his love to shine through us. I suppose these opportunities present themselves daily - if you recognize them. It is offering a smile. Opening a door. Lending a hug. Listening. Crying. Praying.

I know I'm guilty of hurrying through my day - attempting to check off my "to-do list" before the sun sets. The clock seems to laugh at me as I rush to get everything done. However, life is more than checklists and setting your alarm clock to begin again. It is so much more. The Kairos moments make it worth the ride. They are the spice or seasoning to the chronological ticking of the clock.

So, the challenge to both myself and you dear reader is to take advantage of these Kairos moments as they present themselves. When chronos turns to Kairos, will you recognize it? After all, we all have a set time here on this earth, and it's not the dates on the gravestone that define your life. What matters is what you do with the dash in between those dates of time.