Taking Things For Granted

From time to time we are guilty of taking people or things for granted. We grow accustomed to waking up to our family day after day. Sometimes "I love you" goes left unsaid. Meals shared are hurried through. Supper talks often neglected in lieu of television trays and another night in front of the tube. Pets at times seen more like a nuisance than a blessing.

We take things for granted too. The sun. Rain. Oxygen. Our homes. The fact that the vehicle cranked again this morning. We take our pantry full of food for granted as well as our jobs. It is way too easy to take our health for granted.

We take the special people in our lives for granted until they are gone. I have ministered to many grieving widows and widowers. What they tell me is they would give anything for just a simple thing we take for granted. One more goodnight kiss. To hold a hand. A hug. Another, "I love you."To share an ordinary meal. To just sit and talk.

The same is true of the divorced. I have seen some who never wanted the divorce grieve. They try everything to keep the marriage together. Then it is too late. The other spouse leaves. Memories haunt the halls of the home in pictures. Once a happy home now an abode of sorrow.

I have seen it in parents who lost children to that cruel hand of death that strangled the life form their precious son or daughter. I have also seen it in parents who's hearts have been ripped out by prodigals. Wonderful memories obscured through cascades of tears.

Let us not take the gift of each day for granted. May we wake up to the wonder of the sunrise each day. Let's sing in the rain. Let's walk slowly through day enjoying the brilliant colors of creation, the savor of the food but most importantly the special people in our lives.

Too many conversations between people can be left unsaid. We need to share our hearts communicate our affections and express our love daily. One day it be will too late.

One day we may not be able to enjoy the great outdoors if our health fails. The warmth of the sun rays. The smell of the fresh flowers. The brush against our sin from the breeze. The texture of the cloth of our clothing. The softness of the mattress and the pillow. The warmth or coolness of the water in the shower. The feel of the book in our hands.

We take so much for granted. Each day is a gift from God. Admittedly some days are harder, more trying and sorrowful than others. Even when caring for a dying loved one each day is another day to take snapshots with the heart. Each day is a chance to say everything that needs to be said.

Most importantly of all each day is a day to draw nearer to your Savior. Each day another opportunity to get into the truth of the scriptures. Each day another day to immune with Him in prayer. Another day to get lost in the wonder of worship. Another day to behold Him.

Sadly everything I listed above can be taken for granted. In the rat race of life we miss out on the most important things. Cultivating intimacy with Jesus. Making memories with our family and friends. Taking care of our health. Enjoying the simple pleasures. Life is ta gift. Make the most of it.

Psalm 90:12 (NKJV) 
¹²  So teach usto number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.