St John's Church, Knaresborough: Redeeming the Time

St John’s Church in Knaresborough is a fine old place, and entirely fitting for so pretty a town. Originating in the twelfth century, it has the usual range of gothic styles, as well as restorations. Its altar (bottom), rather curiously appears to be very modern, though on closer reflection, one sees even here the influence of the pointed, gothic arch. Despite its interesting, though somewhat dark interior, it was the outer bell tower which captured my attention and set me thinking.

The phrase ‘Redeeming the Time’ is recorded above the clock. Twice this phrase is used by the Apostle Paul in the New Testament:

Ephesians 5:16: …Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Colossians 4:5: Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. (both NKJV)

In one sense, time cannot be redeemed, which means to be bought back or restored at cost. Once gone, it cannot be retrieved or re-run. So it what sense can it be redeemed? We can use what we have left for some greater purpose: for wisdom and outreach in the Colossian reference, and in contrast to our bleak times, in the Ephesian citation.

There is much wisdom in that phrase, and the good folk of Knaresborough are blessed to be reminded so.