Good morning on this Saturday, February 25th. The Bible constantly reminds us of the brevity of life. Nearly 20 times its writers ask the question, "What is your life?" Each and every time it answers that question, it does so with a metaphor demonstrating brevity. For instance, James asks, 'For what is your life?" Then answers the question with, "It is even a vapor that appears for a little while, then vanishes away" (James 4:14). Note that the emphasis "a litle while" and "then vanishes away." Other Biblical comparisons include the swiftness of a weaver's shuttle as it goes back and forth weaving fabric, the swiftness of package deliveries (in today's venacular it would be comparable to Fed Ex delivery service), and how quickly flowers wilt and fade. I was reminded of these truths when I watched a news report this week about the death of war correspondent, Marie Colvin. She was a long-standing seemingly fearless newspaper reporter who most recently worked for UK news services. She had entered Syria and was reporting on the government forces' deadly attacks on both the opposition forces and innocent civilians. Her unmistakable signature was the wearing of a large black patch over a shrapnel injured bad eye, as she was frequently reporting on TV and in photo journalist articles. I watched a live interview with her on CNN late one evening, then watched as the next day they reported her death when a mortar shell hit the house where she was headquartering killing her and a photographer. One day here reporting, talking, living, and a few hours later lifeless - like a vapor which filled the air, then suddenly disappeared. May we be reminded to make the most of our lives for Jesus Christ and the things that matter most. The writer was right who penned, "Only one life, twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ, will last." Take time to tell a loved one you love them, spend time with friends and family, smell the flowers, enjoy a sunrise or sunset, hug your children or grandchildren, and spend time with the Lord. Remember the verse in Proverbs, "Boast not yourself about tomorrow, for you know not what a day may bring forth" (Proverbs 27:1).
Tomorrow's sermon is about Paul's prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23.
I hope you can make it to the services.
Mel Brown