Missed Opportunities

I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:9-10 ESV). Benjamin Franklin said, "One today is worth two tomorrows." His words point out a real danger for all of us: while dreaming about a better tomorrow, we can make the mistake of neglecting today. Recently I read a poem titled “Missed Opportunities.” It is very thought-provoking: There was a very cautious man Who never laughed or played. He never risked, he never tried, He never sang or prayed. And when he one day passed away, His insurance was denied. For since he never really lived, They claimed he never died. That man went through the motions, and never really enjoyed life. If we are not careful, we can do the same. Psychologist William James said that, "Compared with what we ought to be, we are only half awake. We are making use of only a small part of our possible mental and physical resources. The human individual . . . possesses powers of various sorts he habitually fails to use." Thus, James discussed in professional terms what the poem talks about. Both describe people who go through the motions, hoping that somehow things will be better tomorrow. Unfortunately, they miss many good aspects of life because they fail to make the most of each day. I read somewhere that yesterday is a canceled check, and tomorrow is a promissory note. But today is cash, ready for us to spend in living. How are you spending today? In John 10:10, Jesus said that he came that we might have life, "...and have it to the full." Decide now to make the most of each day. Start by asking God to help you build a closer relationship with Him. Or, if you've never made a commitment to Him, take this step today. And talk with Him about how you should spend the time He has given you. Then follow up by making adjustments in your life. Finally, remember that one today is worth two tomorrows.