The New Testament admonishes us to “redeem the time”. Our understanding of this phrase is closely bound to our concept of stewardship.  Those who see stewardship primarily in material terms interpret this phrase as an injunction to occupy every minute with some gainful employment.

Interestingly enough, if we look at the context, we find the Apostle Paul was more concerned about spiritual things when he spoke of redeeming the time.  In Ephesians 5:16 the concern is to make sure of our own salvation.  In Colossians 4:5 it is our witness to those outside the Church.

The Greek word here does not refer to a quantity of time, but rather to the quality of time.  It is sometimes translated opportunity.  Are there are times when the Spirit prompts us to take time to pray, to meditate on God’s Word, but we are too busy being good stewards?  That is not redeeming the time.  Are there neighbours to visit, children to tell stories to, letters to write, but we are too busy?  That is not redeeming the time.  Did we meet someone today who seemed to be reaching out for answers, for a touch of human kindness, but we were too busy?  Is our concept of stewardship drawing us away from our real purpose in this world?

We can’t serve God and Mammon.  If we were to truly put the spiritual stewardship first, would we have such a problem with materialism?  At the very least I doubt that it would be such a mystery.  If we try to find our security in material things: money and the things money can buy; having a secure source of income; keeping up appearances; always doing things just about right; that is “covetousness, which is idolatry”.  Our choice is clear: choose Mammon who promises earthly security but delivers oppression; or choose Jesus who offers us the true security when all these earthly things fail.