Sermon Illustrations: Punctuality

A nationwide synchronisation of watches marked the start of a campaign to stamp out the country's legendary tardiness. Locals run on what is referred to as "Ecuadorian time," meaning most people turn up for appointments at least 15 minutes late. The civic group behind the scheme puts the cost of this lax approach at more than $700 million a year. The campaign has the backing of President Lucio Gutierrez .. who is often as much as three hours late for meetings. Time, October 13, 2003, p 21