And I’ve got to tell you –
driving into work on this fine spring morning, the colors seemed a bit more
vibrant. What a tremendous gift
life is – existence is. Think about
it: there was a time when we “were not.” God created this tremendous chain of cause
and effect to bring our bodies into being and then, at that astonishing moment
of conception, directly created our immortal souls! And the day I became a dad, He made me a part of bringing new life into the
world! I am so deeply grateful.
Turning 40 gives me time to
look behind me and appreciate, not just the miracle of existence, but the way
Jesus has filled my life with life –
His presence, His word, beautiful family and friends.
Turning 40 also makes me
look ahead: my race is most likely half
run. The funny thing is – that fills me
with hope. It’s not a morbid hope; it’s
more like the tinge of excitement you felt when you graduated eighth grade and
realized, “Whoa, I’m half way done
with my education! Four years of high
school, four of college; and then I get to go out into the 'real world'!” I still enjoyed - deeply enjoyed - those
eight years of high school and college; but I looked forward to the day when I
would finally be “free.”
I am amazed at how faith changes
our perspective. Even if we groan and
complain about the present moment, we Christians are dyed-in-the-wool
optimists: we are convinced that our greatest days always lie ahead of us! Each year that passes we move closer to our
Goal; and, hopefully, we experience more of the abundant life Jesus is intent on
pouring into us.
If you could, please do this
middle-aged guy a kindness on his birthday: Ask the Lord to grace me so I can make the
most of the time that is left - that they be days, years, or decades of expressing gratitude and of loving family and friends generously and unselfishly. Pray that I do not stumble or disappoint Him. Ask Him to bring me safely through the finish line and into the freedom and life He intends. And please pray that when I depart, He lavishes a double-portion of His love and protection upon my kids. A sincere birthday "thank you" from me to you!
