Celebrate the Gift of Life
I greeted my brother Calvin one day and asked how he was doing. He responded, “I’m doing great; I woke up this morning.” I am not sure when I first heard my brother say this, but I have since realized that this is his regular response when I greet him. To say that you are doing great simply because you woke up this morning, is saying a lot. You do not know if your day will bring some pain or if you will experience great gain; but you woke up this morning. Your day might be all smiles or some frowns; but at least you woke up this morning. What a powerful perspective!
The psalmist encourages this perspective and practice when he makes this observation: This is the day which the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24, KJV). We must choose to rejoice and be glad in each day that God gives. Do not allow your choice to be based on external circumstances. And make that choice early when you get up in the morning.
The question then comes to mind: “How can I rejoice when nothing seems joyful in my life?” Or someone might be thinking: “How can I be glad if my circumstances make me sad?” These are fair questions, but God wants us to take charge of our circumstances and choose our response. You may not be able to control other people’s actions, but always try to control your reaction to other people’s actions.
The apostle Paul offers this advice to help us choose how we should respond to things in our lives. “8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8, NIV). You may not have a set of perfect circumstances, or things might not be right at this moment in your life. However, find whatever is good or profitable or meaningful, and celebrate that thing or those things.
If you cannot seem to find anything good in your life, then simply celebrate the gift of life. Where there is life there is hope. And if you have hope you will see, feel, experience, and appreciate the goodness of God. What is it that hinders your celebration of the gift of life? Name it and ask God to remove it.
If you woke up this morning you should celebrate, if only in your spirit and your soul. Each day is a gift from God. If you are alive, you have received the gift of life in this day that God has given. That is enough reason to celebrate. So go on and celebrate the gift of life!
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