The One

Only One
Psalm 39:4-5
4 “LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.
Remind me that my days are numbered—
how fleeting my life is.
5 You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.
My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;
at best, each of us is but a breath.”
This week we are saying goodbye to a great man, friend, father, husband, and member
of The Well at Centerville. Now, no one’s life is more important than another. Not long
ago we said goodbye to another wonderful woman who served and loved her
community. That goodbye was just as precious and just as impactful as any. Both have
given us a vivid perspective of the psalmist’s heart as they also pondered the brevity of
life and the finality of it all. Both of our beloved members lived one lifetime yet packed
so much into such a seemingly short span of time.
When I was younger, I thought 30 was old. Now when someone says they’re 80 I
think “that’s not really that old.” Aging tends to add perspective to our lives like
nothing else. Watching those who have lived and given so much leave this earth
becomes more and more of a challenge. The Lord gives and the Lord takes away,
sometimes sooner than we would have preferred. Yet, I’m amazed at His work in the
end as well.
Sitting with the families of those whom we have seen but see no more has become an
honor and gift in ministry. Hearing their stories and listening to the hearts sing of their
loved one inspires us to be refreshed of how important it is to use every ounce of time
we have to care for those closest to us. If we are not good stewards of what’s given, so
much is lost that can never be regained. How important is a thing we can never remake
or regain? Making the most of the only one we have should be our daily desire and
focus, not a momentary flutter when we are reminded of how precious it truly is.
I believe both Betty and Sonny made the most of the precious gift given to each of
them. They loved their families and truly loved the Lord in both word and deed. May
we be ever reminded in the halls of our church that though the days may seem many,
there is only one. In their memory, let’s make the most of it.
Keep The Faith,
Pastor Tommy