Life Is a Gift

As a pastor, I have the privilege of being with people at the end of their lives. This is always a reminder to me that life is short and that our time here is just a breath. Sometimes near the end of life, people will want to talk about what’s been most important in their lives. It’s interesting, I’ve never heard anyone say, “I wish I had spent more time at the office,” or, “I wish I had earned more money,” or, I wish we could have had that bigger house.” In the end, those things count for very little. 

What I do hear are things like: “I wish I’d spent more time at home.” “I wish I had told her I loved her.” “I’m so thankful I had those last six months with him – what a gift!” “I’m so thankful I finally worked things out with my son.”  

I have to believe that’s why the psalmist prayed, “Lord, teach me to number my days…” (Psalm 90:12) Because when I remember that I have a limited time on this earth and that I – like everything else – will one day be here no more, it definitely raises some deep questions: If my life ended tomorrow, would my wife know how much I love her? Would my children? What would people say about what kind of person I am, today? Am I building the kind of life that makes a difference?

Today may we pray with the Psalmist, “Lord, teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

Let us pray: Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. We remember today that we are here only for a brief moment. Empower us, Loving God, to make the most of each moment of every day, to be present, to love deeply, and to live closely with you. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.