Cycles

Passage

Time is an interesting dimension of our reality. Time is of course relative to where we are located within the space of the universe, yet it is inescapable. Time is relentless in its passing. No matter what happens, time does not stop. The passage of time varies among the planets and galaxies, but it is always marching on.

As immutable as our experience of time is, we still tend to think of time in abstract forms and assumptions conditioned by our cultural background. What I mean is that we view time from the perspective of our cosmological understanding. This means that a person with a secular, materialist mindset is going to view the passage of time differently than a spiritual person that believes in God and reality beyond the dimensions of matter, space, and time.

Eastern Sphere

The first way we can see this cultural or worldview influence on our understanding of time is by looking at the eastern view. The eastern worldview is the philosophical underpinning of systems such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and other views rising from India and the orient. Much of this type of thinking has been combined into what we would call today the New Age or Occult thinking. 

In the eastern mind, time is cyclical. This is why these groups tend to believe in things such as ancestor worship or reincarnation because they understand time as recurring. This leads to a kind of inevitable fatalism that perceives salvation or hope only in escaping this cycle in favor of nothingness or singularity. 

Western Line

Western thought is generally more linear. This means that time is measured and accounted for in a series of moments. This tends to promote an expectation of progress or an expectation of disaster. Either way, the current state of things will have a conclusion. Western thought has been more heavily impacted by Biblical and Christian ideas even if not all of our concept of time is fully Biblical.

Right Time

A biblical view of time will recognize that there is a real progression of time from a definite beginning point in the creation to a definitive end point in the final consummation of all things (2 Peter 3:8-13). But within this continuum of time there is also a cycle seen in the days, months, seasons, and years (Genesis 1:14-19). So we must conclude that along the narrative of history there will be recurring themes evident in nations, cultures, families, and individuals.

So as we come to the end of this year and rollover to the beginning of a new slate of months, let us recognize the change in dates and seasons while remembering the unshakable constant things (Hebrews 12:18-24). First, the LORD is gracious and He will extend His forgiveness and mercy to all who call on Him, so believe in Christ today (Romans 10:8-13)! Secondly, our God is thrice holy and He alone is worthy to be praised, so worship Him now (Revelation 22:9)! Finally, Christ is King and His reign will never end, so submit to Him always (Luke 1:31-33)!

I wish you all a Happy New Year! And I pray that the Lord will bless your life in 2024 through the work of His Holy Spirit and the truth of His word!

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