This year, we've had many, many reminders that every day is a gift. Not one is promised. We need to recognize the gift and embrace the opportunities of each breaking dawn.
Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. -Psalm 90:12
What is the wisdom in this passage? When we learn that in a heartbeat... or the stopping of a heartbeat that life can be forever changed, we start to understand the value of this day. This is not to be a depressing post, but one that starts out the new year with a clean slate.
It is time to let go of the burdens that weigh us down and leave them at the feet of the one who is strong enough to carry them. It is time to let go of useless baggage like unforgiveness and grudges. Humans are imperfect. Only in chasing the heart of Jesus can we truly find peace, love, joy and a stillness that comes from God alone.
Focus on what matters most. As a photographer, I love a shallow depth of field. One that blurs out the background that takes the eye from what is important in the photograph. It is a powerful tool in photography. It is even more powerful in learning to live life well.
It is so easy to get distracted. It is a temptation to follow something shiny, sparkly or new. Humans, by nature, strive to lighten our loads and "work smarter, not harder". To discover more efficient and better ways to complete a task is good... really good. But there are times we need to bear the weight to build our stamina and skill, like in exercise or physical therapy.
Anything can become an obsession. Good things and destructive things. It is why the Bible reminds us that much of what we get caught up chasing after is meaningless. It is real relationships with real people and a very real God that are the game changer.
We don't know the last date on our life dash until it arrives. I am grateful for that gift. I don't want an App to show me how many minutes I have left. I want to live each minute... until I don't. And then, I want to take that first breath of heaven with a light soul, knowing that my imperfections and failings have already been forgiven because Jesus took the cross.
"Teach us, oh Lord, the gift of each day. Let us reflect you more each day, as we seek your will and your way. - amen
Today, I am grateful for the reminders of the brevity of life.
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