“There is nothing dreary or doubtful about life. It is meant to be continually joyful…We are called to a settled happiness in the Lord whose joy is our strength.” ~Amy Carmichael
Sweet Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for handcrafting it. It’s lovely – it really is. And it’s got me thinking.
I wonder what would happen if I truly treated it as if it was the only day I was given. As if it was the last day I was given. Would I tend to it well? Would I cherish it fully? Or would I treat it with lack of consequence? Would I fail to fully celebrate and grieve?
If this was my last day, what would the bed upon rising feel like to me? What would the air upon walking feel like on my face? If this was my last day, what would conversation sound like? Would there be enough hugs? Would I stop long enough to savor one passionate kiss? Would I feast well or enjoy the way a cool beverage is felt throughout my body? Is this was my last day, would I take time to listen to the birds – and understand their song? Would I finally speak up and out, unafraid to encourage or even offend because what needs to be said is more important than rhythm or rhyme? Would I be willing to squander time in simply enjoying a moment?
Sweet Saviour, I don’t know why this is resonating so deeply today. Maybe it’s because these days blend quickly. Maybe it’s because change has been and is continuing to take place in my life. Maybe it’s because things feel fleeting right now. But this is where I am. And I don’t want time to get in the way of it. I want to treat this day like I truly believe it’s the gift I know it is.
If this was your last day, what would you want to do? What would you not want to miss? Who would you want to see? I’m praying right now – that those “last day” things will be your “so many more days left” reality.
Last year, I shared the stories about pictures I’ve taken. This year during the month of October, I’m opening up my journal and sharing prayers. They’re not eloquent or poetic – they’re simple honest talks with God. Some prayers are joyful and some are screams. Some are said in the morning and some at night. It’s my hope the words might help someone else find the words.
