Jul 02

Material possessions are not the only things that can be prized in this world but which will be lost when one dies. Another much-coveted aspect of life here is that of youth and its vigor.

Look at the many commercials on television or elsewhere whose main appeal is to the buyer's desire to stay young. I remember the days when I would play two or three basketball games a week -- and loved every minute of it. I so enjoyed the pleasure of having my body react quickly and strongly to the demands of the intense game that I can still remember certain moments and moves that I made without even thinking about it.

There is a grace and beauty involved in sports and having the human body participate in this way is just as strong a witness to God's glory for having created us with this ability as there is in any other art form -- for athletic prowess is as much art as any other use of human capabilities.

It is not easy to admit than one has grown older and can no longer perform with the vigor that was shown in youth. And so the world clamors for products that will prolong youth and restore vigor. But in the end, this too is lost. The grave swallows this too.

"The youthful vigor that fills his bones will lie with him in the dust" (Job 20:11).

Scripture for today: Job 20:1-11
Thought for today: Youth does not last forever.
Prayer for today: Lord, help me to enjoy the life you have given me, whether young or old.

JUL 02