Number Our Days

Every morning, within a few seconds of the alarm sounding its wake-up call, Nathan and I sluggishly roll over and together pray these words:

"So, teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love that we may rejoice and be glad all our days."

Psalm 90:12-14

After nine months of reciting them, these words not only cross my lips each morning, but also penetrate my heart. Though the words above come out of my mouth, the words below stir in my heart and mind...

Lord, not one man knows the number of his days. You have not guaranteed me tomorrow, nor have you promised that Nathan will return home from work safely this evening. One, or both, of us could be gone in an instant. Remind me that life is short; it is but a vapor that appears and is gone again. - "So, teach us to number our days..."

With this in mind, may I live today with no regrets. Today, make me kingdom-minded and Christ-centered. May I have a war-time mentality, knowing that the days are fleeting and many are headed toward destruction. May I speak the gospel with urgency and love today. May I love Nathan and love my neighbors selflessly and completely. - "...that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Jesus, please come back soon and fulfill your promise to make all things right again! - "Return, O Lord!"

This is not our home, Father! How long must we labor here? We are tired of this broken world, and we are worn down by the weight of sin and evil that surround us. We long to be with You! Please have mercy on us. - "How long? Have pity on your servants!"

Fill my heart this morning with your love. May I rest in your faithfulness today, longing for nothing more. - "Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love..."

Because my heart is satisfied by your steadfast love, I will choose joy today. I will be glad no matter what comes my way, no matter what trials we face, no matter what evil assails us. We rejoice in our Savior today. - "...that we may rejoice and be glad all our days."