today

There are times when it all seems clear, when what truly matters in life becomes self-evident. Just this afternoon, we attended the funeral of a friend. He passed away a few days ago at the all-too-young age of 43, leaving behind a very dedicated wife and a very cute nine-year-old boy. Now, this widow and fatherless child must seek to make it alone in the world. The whole thing is sad, of course, and many people were there to express their condolences.

It is at times like these that we are reminded of what truly matters. It’s amazing how the tears flow freely and kindness is expressed unhesitatingly when we realize how very important life is. Death does that to us, as it should, and other things also make their mark. But funerals especially remind us of the things that ought to occupy us each and every day.

In life we have a window of opportunity, an undefined length of time to make our mark and build our legacy. Given that we don’t know how long we have, and considering the extreme relevance of the things we’re talking about, it is imperative to live life now, while we can, with all that we have.

In one place in Scripture this is addressed with the following words: “Be careful how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the most of your time because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16, NASB). Another translation has it this way: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV).

There are a lot of bad things, temptations, allurements, and distractions throughout this world. Each day has its share of evil. It is thus imperative that we make the most of the time that we have while we still have it. We must live our lives carefully and wisely, and we must do so now. Life is short and sometimes hard, and it is often unpredictable. Your reminded of these things when you’re at a funeral.

Today is the day to care, to love, to show compassion, to express kindness and grace. Now is the time to forgive, to share your heart, to let loved ones know that you’re there for them. Be generous, therefore, while you can. Encourage and lend your support whenever you have the opportunity. Love right now. Your legacy, your impact, the profundity of your life–these are best measured by what you are willing to do and say today.