“When they were all full, he said to his disciples,

“Gather the pieces left over; let us not waste a bit” (John 6:12, GNT).

     My cell phone is no longer working properly. I have had the device for only two years. Planned obsolescence is the reason, so I’m told.

     It seems that many things made today are not built to last. From electronics to motor vehicles, clothing to major league sport rosters, most consumables are produced with a short shelf life in mind. In many instances, it’s more expensive to repair an item than to replace it. Such is life in a disposable society.

     I find this throwaway practice, however, to be at odds with God’s kingdom. Following John’s version of Jesus’ feeding of the 5000, Jesus places a demand upon his disciples that often is overlooked. “Gather the pieces [of bread] left over; LET US NOT WASTE A BIT.” Don’t throw the leftovers in the trash. Don’t leave the bread to rot. Instead, put to use every good gift God has given.

     I believe Jesus’ words are a reminder that all of God’s creation is sacred including such gifts as food, clothing, relationships, and opportunities. To Jesus’ way of thinking, nothing God grants us is to be discarded or squandered. This divine expectation also includes our time.

     I cringe at the number of important moments I’ve lost because I was wasting my time on pursuits that have little eternal value. Television. Mindless arguments over trivial matters. Electronic games I can access from my phone. The list is long.

    Social scientists warn against the allure of those things that are urgent, but unimportant. They demand our attention. Yet they are effectively a waste of time and energy.

    Jesus, instead, prompts us to be mindful of those matters that are important, but not urgent. A phone call to a friend you haven’t heard from in a while. An apology that is long overdue. A knock on the door to welcome a new neighbor. These are the types of investments that honor God and dignify the sacred gifts He has created.