I am at this chapter in my life where I am going to less weddings and more funerals. Thus, reminding me of the fragility of life and the swiftness of time. As I read the obituaries of loved ones, I hear the stories at the funerals and memories shared, I smile for the love they gave while being here. As I sit hearing about all the things these loved ones did, or the way that they loved, it brings me joy, for all the love in which these loved ones shared with so many. The ones that really walked with the Lord and lived godly lives are the ones that stop me in my tracks, and cause me to reevaluate my own life that I am living. What will people say when God calls me home? I hope they say first and foremost, that I loved the Lord and that I walked with Him. I hope that I too will leave love for both God and others in the path in which I lived. There are times in the busyness of life that I feel as though I am doing things right. Then, there are times I question if I am doing enough for His glory. Am I truly using the most of my time for Him, with Him? When a loved one passes, we think about the memories of them and we miss them so much. Though the things we miss the most are the way that they loved and cared for God, for us, and others. I hope that when I go, no one will ever have to wonder my love for them, for I would leave so much love in their hearts and in the memory banks of their minds. I think about life, I know it is fleeting. I know it is uncertain. I know all that we have, is all that we are given and when our hourglass is up, that’s all that we got. May we live this life with intention, with purpose. May we live it walking with our Lord and sharing His good news. May we love God deeply, first and foremost. Secondly, may we love others so much, that the tears they cry when we go are not just for missing us, but for the joy of how much love we gave them when we were here.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Fleetingness of life

Psalm 90:12 NIV

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

Colossians 4:5 NIV

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.

John 9:4 NIV

As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

Matthew 22:37-39 NIV

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’