“LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered—how fleeting my life is.” Psalm 39:4
Dear Jesus, this verse is pertinent and precious. This past week we celebrated the 30th, and probably the last, “Gathering of Friends”—a group of pastors who’ve shared life and the riches of the Gospel, treasured conversations and the emerging weaknesses of aging. We started in our 40’s, now most of us are in our 70’s. How can that be, Lord?
You’ve already called three of our group Home—Tim Keller, Dick Kaufman, and Harry Reeder. How many “numbered days” remain for the rest of us? Hallelujah, that’s in your heart and hands, and won’t be determined by anyone or anything else. But here’s my ponder-worthy questions, I ask you with peace and sincerity: Jesus, what deserves more, and less, of my heart and time?
What should I move from “back burner” status to the front “burner?” I’m not retired and don’t ever plan on using that word, but make clear how I can best serve you and the advancing of the Gospel all the way Home. “Bucket lists” are great, but “to love lists” are way more important. In what relationships would you have me primarily invest? What have I not “put in order” that needs to be?
Jesus—even before heaven, what greater freedom, joy, and “like-you-ness” do you intend for me? If you choose to give me, (and each of you), 3 months, 7 years, or 2 decades, make this our core conviction: “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself in love” (Gal. 5:6). Loving you as you deserve, and loving others as you love us. You alone are worthy, Jesus. So Very Amen.