“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12

Lately, there have been some tragic circumstances in the lives of close friends that have forced me to grasp the brevity of life.

It’s the kind of stuff that makes you ask, how and why? Situations that are shocking and brutal.

And while I recently spoke and wrote about preparing for the future, few things can prepare you for the loss of a loved one. I don’t write today from experience, but from observation.

Except for grandparents, I have not yet lost anyone super close to me. But when I receive the news of someone’s child dying in an accident or the sudden death of a friend’s spouse, it causes me to gasp deeply for breath. How and why.

These are the questions that fill my mind. How does a good God in His sovereignty allow such pain, and why does He take people seemingly far too soon?

Scripture is loaded with words of suffering and pain, heartbreak and brokenness. And yet, when we reflect on further evidence in His Word of a faithful and loving God, we can see and trust that His ways are much higher than our understanding of tragedies.

Because we don’t know what the future holds, but we do know who holds it, we can attempt to live a life of wholehearted love toward others with minimal regrets. However, we can’t assume we have endless time to show our sentiments to those we love.

James 4:14 says, “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

We can seize every opportunity to make the most of every day because each day is a gift.

Reach out with an encouraging text. Send the handwritten note. Make the phone call. Say I love you one more time. Linger longer in that warm embrace. Take the picture. Redeem the time.

We may never understand the how and why of certain situations, but we can at least make every effort to grasp the brevity of life.

Lord, teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Remind us that life is fleeting and our days are ordained by You. In Jesus’ name, amen.