I was blessed to have my mom stay with us for the past few days. We sat around the piano in the living room and she sang some of the songs that she used to sing in church and around the house when I was a growing up. My mom is very reserved so I'm still in awe that she sang with me. We got to talking about so many wonderful people we knew who have passed away (morbid, I know). As we reminisced about the good of each person (young and old) and their unique personalities, this thought came to my mind: "The here and now is all you really have." Yes, there is the after life and all but just think: In a split second any one of us could become a fond memory in our circle of family and friends. How many folks do you know who right in the course of making big plans, purchasing new stuff or amidst some foolishness just "up and died?" (as they say). The Bible says "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matt. 6:34); "Do not boast about tomorrow; for you do not know what a day may bring forth" (Prov. 27:1). I once heard it said that if death catches you by surprise don't blame God. He told you it would happen.
Though all of this is far from a new revelation, we all tend to forget that life is quick and uncertain. Knowing God and revealing His love to others is the most important thing we could ever do. Yet today more than ever, people have become enamored with themselves. We spend immeasurable amounts of time trying to get recognized and make a name for ourselves in one arena or another. We yearn for influence among our peers and acceptance among those we've deemed greater or more successful than we are (a common trend in church circles). Yet Jesus himself said, "And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose or forfeit your own soul in the process?" (Luke 9:25 NLT)
What price are you willing to pay for success? If it costs you the bond you share with your family would it be worth it? What ungodly pleasure is worth performing before a holy God who sees all? If your end came today would you be happy with how your final weeks, days, hours were spent?
Something to think about.
Though all of this is far from a new revelation, we all tend to forget that life is quick and uncertain. Knowing God and revealing His love to others is the most important thing we could ever do. Yet today more than ever, people have become enamored with themselves. We spend immeasurable amounts of time trying to get recognized and make a name for ourselves in one arena or another. We yearn for influence among our peers and acceptance among those we've deemed greater or more successful than we are (a common trend in church circles). Yet Jesus himself said, "And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose or forfeit your own soul in the process?" (Luke 9:25 NLT)
What price are you willing to pay for success? If it costs you the bond you share with your family would it be worth it? What ungodly pleasure is worth performing before a holy God who sees all? If your end came today would you be happy with how your final weeks, days, hours were spent?
Something to think about.
