Measuring Time

There are two words in Greek for time—chronos and kairos. The Greeks used chronos—where we get our word chronology—to describe a specific measurement of time or a sequence of events (for example, 3:45 on a Tuesday afternoon). But kairos time is different. It describes a more qualitative reality. If chronos deals with clocks and calendars, kairos deals with moments and seasons. It is time pregnant with possibility, God’s directed moments of invitation to deeper trust. Kairos time is rarely neutral; it leaves a mark on our lives, either positive or negative. Kairos times remain in our heads and hearts as some of our deepest, most lasting memories.

Our lives are measured by chronos time, but they are marked with kairos time—and each one of these moments elicit a response from us. More often than not, the biblical writers were describing time in the reality of kairos, not chronos. It’s no wonder the biblical writers used kairos time almost twice as much as chronos time. The biblical characters saw kairos time as God appointed moments in history—the in-breaking of God’s activity. It is easy to focus our attention on chronos minutes so much that we miss kairos moments.

Wise followers of Christ steward kairos moments faithfully.

Healthy communities look to embrace kairos moments and learn from them, especially when they involve failure, pain or hurt. Jesus calls the church to be a giving, worshiping, loving, serving and forgiving family on earth that exemplifies the way of the kingdom.

Karios time inspired our name - Karios Partnerships. We want to help steward hungry kingdom leaders steward kairos moments faithfully and fruitfully.