Cherish Each Day, Each Moment

“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes”James 4:14

On one of our trips to Colorado, we got up early to go into Rocky Mountain National Park to take some pictures before breakfast. It was a clear morning, with the sun shining brightly as we entered the park. We were driving along a road that would eventually wind its way to one of our favorite lakes for a quick walk. As we rounded a curve that overlooked a valley, we were treated to an amazing sight. The moisture and temperature were just right for a thermal inversion – covering the valley in a fog-like mist, while the sky above was crisp, clean and blue. We pulled over and took in the view for a few minutes – never in our 20 years of trips to Colorado had we seen anything like this.

It made for some hauntingly beautiful photos.

We drove that same road later that day, and of course the mist had evaporated. Gone.

In my life as a pastor, I know that there is profound truth in what James teaches about our years on earth: “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” James is merely echoing truth that is gleaned from other places in Scripture:

- “Remember, O God, that my life is but a breath...” (Job 7:7) 

- “Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.” (Psalm 39:5) 

- “For my days vanish like smoke...” (Psalm 102:3)

Part of me wants to apologize because that really sounds harsh. But I think it's important to keep it real. Because the truth is, no matter how healthy we are, no matter how well everything seems to be going, the only certainty that we have is this very moment.

I don't say this to be a downer, or to rain on your parade. I say this because every moment we have breath is precious. Every moment our heart beats is to be cherished.

The truth is, every day is a gift. A sheer, undeserved, glorious gift. Don't let it go unappreciated. Give thanks to God for the gift of life, while you and those you love have it. Don't wait until tomorrow, because tomorrow might not come – for you, or for me, or for those you love.

Parents, tell your children how precious they are, and how much you love them.

Spouses, tell your husband or wife that your love is stronger today than the day you married.

Children, tell your parents what is on your hearts – we love you unconditionally.

Everyone: forgive, and seek forgiveness; love, and let others love you; encourage one another; treat one another with compassion and mercy and grace.

When you go to sleep tonight, give thanks to God, for God brought you through another day.

And tomorrow, when you wake up, give thanks to God, for God has given you another day.

Every day is precious. 

Every. 

Day.