Yesterday I passed one of those dreaded decade markers on life’s journey – the big Six “O” – as in “Oh, no! I can’t be this old!” I’ve heard things speed up from here – 65, 70, 75…. I’m looking forward to hitting 100! Then I’ll really be moving!
These decade birthdays naturally make a person stop and think. Looking back over the last 60 years, I am overwhelmed by how much God has blessed me. Amazing parents, wonderful siblings, growing up in the country, success in school and medicine, a comfortable home – I could go on and on. The greatest blessing of all has been my beautiful wife and amazing children. They’ve made the last 36 years incredible and I love them each with every fiber of my being.
Of course, when I look back at my life, I see more than just roses and rainbows. There were dark clouds and difficult times too. The deaths of my brother, my grandparents, and, last year, my father, were especially hard. And there were other potholes, disappointments and broken dreams which made the road rough at times.
A lot of the hard times were my own fault. Mistakes and poor choices many times darkened my path, leaving me struggling with depression and despair. At times I’ve wondered if I could make it through another day.
Yet even these dark times have had a silver lining. Through them I’ve learned to lean harder into the arms of the One who promised to never let me go. With David I can truly say of my Heavenly Father, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
The last 60 years have been an adventure, but it’s in the past. It’s time to step into the future! “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13, 14).
I don’t know what the future holds, but I can hardly wait to see! One thing I do know is I will never be alone. The same Jesus who promised to be with me always will walk with me every step of the way. “Surely [His] goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6).
My friend, I’m sure as you look back over your own life it hasn’t always been easy. Mistakes and disappointments may have darkened your way too. But remember this – the past is in the past! It’s time to forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead.
This morning put your hand in the hand of Jesus. Give Him your heart. Let Him heal your past and then walk with Him into a brighter future. Remember, with Jesus leading the way, the best is yet to come!