Perhaps we have seen the young child on their birthday or at Christmas eagerly ripping the wrapping paper off a gift. And though they may show some excitement over what is uncovered, the first is quickly tossed aside to rip into the next and the next and the next until, perhaps, the look on their face seems to imply, “Is that all? Where’s the next?”
As we consider life, how many approach it in a similar way. Though planning for days ahead is wise, have we ever become so focused on the next day that we have failed to properly appreciate and live in the one we have. Not knowing all tomorrow will bring or even if there will be a tomorrow (note James 4:13-15), are we unwrapping today and striving to live in it in a manner revealing our sincere appreciation for the gift it is? As Jesus urged away from anxious living, He noted the sufficiency of caring for the issues of today. (Matthew 6:34) In God’s wisdom He has provided us life in daily doses rather than overwhelming us with a lifetime in one heap! There will be gifts to come, but are we duly appreciating and using the gift of the present?
One of the psalmists wrote. . .
“(22) The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. (23) This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. (24) This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:22-24 ESV)
Clearly, the main context of this passage was a reference looking toward the day of the coming Messiah. (Matthew 21:42; Acts 4:11; 1 Peter 2:4-7) However, as it is God Who provides each day we have until the final coming of the Lord, each one ought to be viewed as the gift it truly is! Let us not toss it aside in anxiousness for the next, but gratefully accept it from God and use it as best we can to His glory and praise. In properly using the present day, we will be better prepared for however many more our Heavenly Father will graciously provide. May we therefore present our life to God as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to Him (Romans 12:1) as we worship the Giver of the precious gift it is!
Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING THE PRESENT IT IS!
Carl
