在1967年之前，時間單位的科學測量都是基於天文規律：地球自轉以及繞太陽公轉。但經過了多個世紀，出現了一個問題：地球自轉的速度其實正在逐漸變慢，科學家發現一秒這個單位比過去要長一些。雖然這變化非常緩慢，但自基督紀年（公元元年）以來，世界已「失去」整整三小時。

當然，上帝創造了我們測量時間的方式：天文軌道與公轉週期。科學家的計算可能沒有我們想像的精確，但我們可以堅定地相信使徒彼得所說的話：「主看一日如千年」（彼得後書3章8節）。那時，有些信徒質疑和抱怨耶穌怎麼還未再來，彼得反駁說：「主所應許的尚未成就，有人以為祂是耽延」（9節），其實上帝是按照祂自己的時間和旨意行事。

不僅如此，上帝的時間安排是出於祂的愛，因祂「不願有一人沉淪，乃願人人都悔改」（9節）。耶穌必會再來，而上帝要每一個人都有機會來親近祂，這正是祂愛的表現。我們在等候祂再來的同時，都要「殷勤，使自己沒有玷污，無可指摘」（14節）。

時間、上帝與愛，是緊密相連的：在這末後的日子裡，上帝的愛絕對不含糊，是唯一精確可靠的。

Until 1967, units of time were scientifically measured by astronomical patterns: the spin of the earth and its revolution around the sun. But over the centuries, a problem emerged. The earth is actually slowing down in its orbit. Scientists discovered that the unit of the second is longer than it used to be. Gradual though this is, since the days of Christ, the world has “lost” a full three hours of measured time.

Of course, God created the ways we measure time: the astronomy of orbits and revolutions. Scientists’ calculations may be squishier than we’d thought, but we can stand firmly in Peter’s words: “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years” (2 Peter 3:8). He is arguing against doubters who complained that Jesus hadn’t returned yet: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness” (v. 9). God works in His own time for His own purposes.

There’s more! God’s “timing” is born out of His love: “He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (v. 9). Jesus will return, and God wants everyone to have the opportunity to come to Him. This is an expression of His love. Meanwhile, we’re to “make every effort to be found spotless” (v. 14). 

Time, God, and love are linked together: In these last days God’s love is never squishy. It’s the one sure thing.