After the Birthday!

This past week was my birthday—August 25th.  I’ve received cards, some gifts, and balloons. I’ve had cake and other sweets to celebrate turning 67. And, there were all the Facebook messages, a few phone calls, and some text messages, all wishing me a very happy birthday. I’m grateful for it all. 

However, that was this past week. Now a week later, the messages, cards, gifts, etc. have ceased. At this point, I’m simply living my life as a 67 year old, going about all the normal routines of life, just one year older. Do I feel any different? (We’re always asked, how does it fell to be ____ years old?). Of course, not. The day after turning  67 I felt l just as I did the day before. After all, in the end, one day simply flows into the next, one week into the next, one year into the next. It’s usually not until we look back over time that we begin to see and feel the effects of time, age, and all the birthdays that have come along. 

The good thing about birthdays, however, is, if we are wise, they cause us to ask ourselves, am I living my life day to day, week after week, and year to year as I ought? Are my days, weeks, and years adding up to a life well-lived? Is my life honoring God, bringing blessing to others, and achieving the purposes for which I know I am here on this earth? 

The Psalmist prayed, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12 - NIV) That is, wise living is the result of realizing that the days we have in hand are not infinite, but in truth, fleeting.  Or, as the Apostle Paul wrote, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) 

I am hoping and praying, with the help of the Holy Spirit, I will be able to live this next year as God would have me live it. The time I have (and that you have) is a gift from God. Each year is a blessing from his hand. Thus, I want to be wise in how I use this time given to me by him. 

May the same be true for you, as well. 

Have a great day! 

- Pastor Tim Harris