The Present

   When most people think of a present they think of something someone has given them; a birthday or Christmas present.  We all look forward to getting presents, especially from those who love us.

   Giving another a present can be as joyful as receiving one.  We take a lot of pleasure in giving something to those we love and care for and greatly enjoy their happiness at receiving them. 

   Present has a different meaning when we apply it to our faith.  It is the very moment in which we live.  It doesn’t include yesterday and can’t include tomorrow.  This small bit of time is truly all we have in this world.  But it is one of the greatest presents we will ever receive.

   Worldly presents don’t last.  They break, become lost or simply quit working due to age.  Only the love with which they were given lasts.  That love is the true value of the present, rather than its' cost.

   The moment in which we live never loses its value though we too often waste it.  We let the moment pass without telling our loved ones how much we love them.  We look forward to tomorrow as if tomorrow were guaranteed when even the next second is not a certainty.

   God has given us this moment and there is no way of knowing if He will give us the next.  It is our choice to use however we will.  If we waste it, it’s gone forever.  If we give God’s gift of the moment back to Him in thanks and praise it can help us receive the greatest gift of all; salvation and eternal life with our Lord.  Pray to God in thanks each day for the moments He has given you and those He will give.  To live each moment for God is the most wonderful of gifts.

Lord, my life is short and uncertain.

I thank You and praise You for each moment.

May I live each second for Your greater glory.

Amen