One More Day

Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. (1 Timothy 4:7-10 ESV).

I have often used the illustration of the time of day to describe where I might be in my life. I have said that I am much nearer midnight than morning. And, with being morbid, average life-span of an American male makes that a reality. Today, being New Year’s Eve, makes us all think a bit more about time. Certainly we will see an ending of sorts and a beginning of another. This year will soon become “past” while the “future” dawns. That truth really doesn’t impact our life. We all live in a very specific span of days. God has already determined the length of those days. Our choice is then not how many days we have left, but how we shall use them. So, if you received an official notice today that this is your last day to live, what difference would it make in the things you do? Would you try to make more money; or stay late at the office working on that special project not yet completed? Would you spend the time with your family, or express thanks to those who’ve helped you along the way? Would you seek to get right with God? What would you do? We tend to focus on the material and the temporal and neglect the eternal and relational. None of us knows the number of days God has planned for us. It is essential that we not procrastinate until tomorrow the really important things you can do today. God became a man in the person of Jesus to show us how. Start there, and show your family how much you love them. Surprise them by occasionally coming home early. Tell them you love them. Plan fun things to do with them. Help someone you care about, someone who needs you at the office, in the neighborhood, or maybe someone who needs a friend. Certainly this is the Apostle Paul’s instruction in our reading today. This is where we should spend our time. It may not be the last day you live here on earth, but it may become a great day for you and those you care about.