Life is Short, Make Everyday Count

James 4:14(NIV),”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.”

Just about a week ago, I was telling a coworker about the influx of car accidents I’ve been seeing over the last couple of weeks while driving to work. Here in South Florida where I currently reside, the area is heavily populated and therefore there is an abundance of traffic on the road. I guess the allure of beaches and palm trees, combined with the warm tropical climate and endless summers, is a welcome oasis for those looking to relocate. Since relocating here from Michigan several years ago, I myself have definitely enjoyed the beautiful weather and I truly don’t miss Michigan’s snowy winters even though I do miss many of my friends and the peaceful parks that were some of my favorite places to commune with the Lord.

Well while driving to work earlier this week, I unfortunately encountered yet another accident but this time it involved one car and a bicyclist. I was passing by on the opposite side of the street but even from a distance I could see the up and down motion of the woman’s chest who was laying on the ground as she struggled to breathe. I figured her shortness of breath was a combination of injury and fear. The lady who appeared to own the car that was involved, was anxiously pacing back and forth as she talked on her cell phone. There was a man standing over the bicyclist speaking to her, and I could see that although she was very short of breath, she was speaking back to him. As car after car made it’s way around her, I watched as long as I could until my light turned green and the traffic in front of me began to move. As I moved, I could faintly hear the sound of a siren in the distant. I felt scared for her but prayed that God would bring healing to her body and that she would be alright.

As I got up on interstate 95 to continue my drive to work, this incident reminded me just how quickly life can change or even worse, end. As I saw that lady laying on the ground and gasping for breath, I was also reminded how important it is to make everyday count. I’m sure she never imagined that when she left her home that morning she would get hit by a car, but she did. We can be here one day but gone the next. It’s God that watches over us each day, offering His protection as we go about our daily tasks.

When we realize how brief our stay here on Earth really is, it makes us want to live life in the best way possible instead of just going through the motions. Living our best life isn’t only about acquiring more material things or accolades for ourselves, but it’s mostly about asking God to use us to be a blessing to others. It’s about the opportunities He allows us to have where we can pursue our purpose and use our gifts to help people and help make the world a better place. There is something special that God planted inside of each one of us. No one can be you or me, except you or me, so let’s make the most of the time God has given us to share His love with those around us.

In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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