Faith Words: Today

Last Friday, I attended my great niece's high school graduation.  She is 18.  Today, if I hadn't gotten sick, I would have attended the funeral of a dear friend's granddaughter. She was 19.  One year ago, she was graduating from high school.  I can hardly wrap my mind around it.  Two young women who at 18 have the world before them, full of promise.  But where will the next year take them?  For one, the question has been answered.  For the other, we'll have to wait to see.

It's a question we each need to ask ourselves.  Do we - any of us - know where we'll be in a year?

The events of last weekend made me think.  So much of my life I've taken for granted that I'll have a next year, that I'll live to a very old age.  But I'm not guaranteed that.  I really only have this moment right now.  Yet the choices I make today will color my tomorrow.

What am I doing today to move me toward the tomorrow I'd like to have, toward where I'd like to be this time next year? Will I live intentionally in the present, taking hold of each opportunity that God gives me?

I don't know where I'll be in a year.  I don't even know exactly what path I'll be on in a year.  I do hope God will grant me the wisdom to see each choice I make clearly through His eyes.  I hope God will help me learn how not to squander the time He has given me.  I hope God will help me treasure the people in my life, even if they only cross my path for a moment.  I hope the person I'll be in a year will be a kinder, more loving, more patient, gentler me.

But whatever happens, I hope for both you and me that this time next year finds us holding God's hand.

Looking forward.

Patrice

Isaiah 41:13. (NIV)

For I am the LORD, your God,
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you,
Do not fear; I will help you.