The crowd gathered at dusk on the beach to watch the sunset. The event was so beautiful and meaningful that there was a murmur of delight expressed by the viewers as the faintest sliver of gold slipped over the water's edge. Couples kissed and the rowdy let out a hoop. Some uttered a prayer of thanks to the Lord for that unique, particular day. Yet the sun itself, as part of God's creation, seemed to issue the statement that the day was over and would never come again.

Whatever opportunities were offered for that day were gone. Whatever possibilities had been extended for that particular day were no longer within reach. The Bible states, "This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" Ps. 118:24. Also, "make the most of every opportunity" Col. 4:5. There is no greater purpose than to love the Lord and glorify Him in all we do. Spending the day honoring and obeying Him is how we make the most of it.

When our heart and soul belong to Him our day is filled with purpose and meaning. We become aware of opportunities that lie before us and people we can love and serve. When a day is gone, we can't get it back. The sun isn't like a window blind that we can roll back up. Yet we have this moment, this day, to live for the Lord who loves us and sent His Son to die for our sins on the cross. He is risen and will come again. So, "whatsoever you do, do it heartily for the Lord, and not unto men" Col. 3:23.

Pastor Greg Brownell

Dayton United Brethren Church