Present (08/09/2025)

There is an app on Facebook that has been showing up as I swish through the posting. It is called “DreamFace” and it features the most precious kittens (AI generated, but still precious). And they have some great advice and loving affirmation for those who stop scrolling and watch and listen. Today, the little kitten reminded me that “yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery but today is a gift and that’s why they call it ‘the present.’”

Today, when I watched the kitten tell me about past, present and future, I remembered what I already knew – time is a gift. I’ve learned that we need to be reminded of things we know. It’s not that we forget so much as we suspend its application momentarily or indefinitely. And so, I promised myself again today to practice that which I know I should, that which I know I am called to do – making the most of the gift given to me called time – called life – called my life.

And then the words soaked in… “gift…the present”. And I realized that gratitude is the key that will unlock this gift. Gratitude for my life, for my time, for my moments, for my being. I offered the LORD a sincere and heartfelt prayer of praise and thanksgiving for “the present” – for the gift of now that the LORD has given me time and time again. And I promised the LORD to live the day in gratitude and with gratitude.

And as I was thinking about picking up and embracing and practicing that which I know – that time is a gift to be used well and lovingly – I also realized that the best way to do that was to begin with prayer specifically asking for help with this life management skill I struggle with so frequently. And so, I pray…LORD, may I savor, treasure, and spend well that which You give to me, most especially the gift of time. Lead me, LORD. Help me discern your will for me this day and the resolve to live it as fully as You desire. Amen.

As we continue on our journeys of faith, hope and love, let us recognize this day, these moments and hours as what they are – pure gift. We did nothing to earn more. We can’t pay for them or purchase them. They are gifts. Let us be grateful for the LORD’s loving gift to us and let us vow to go forward in gratitude and unwrap this gift fully and lovingly.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.