MILESTONE

Psalm 90:12—Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

April 28^th is a milestone in the York household. My oldest son Bryan celebrates his 16^th birthday. Bryan was diagnosed with a brain-stem tumor on February 14, 1991. His doctor told us he had zero chance of survival; his tumor was a ticking time bomb. At the age of three Bryan endured 72 radiation treatments that shrunk his tumor, damaged his hearing, impaired his mobility, and degraded his ability to process information. In June of that same year, a group of young-married couples gathered with Kathleen, Bryan, and me to weep, pray for him, and worship in song our awesome God. The Holy Spirit descended into our midst and healed our son. He also profoundly taught me the power and hope that comes from worship.

We do not know the number of days we will live on this earth. But we have the sober responsibility of living each one with purpose. I cannot imagine life devoid of God. The reality of death and living a meaningless existence would be overwhelming were it not for the hope of eternal life and direction that comes with a personal friendship with Jesus Christ. True joy flows in the grace and mercy that abound in the love of our Father Who made us to know us and so He would be known.

I cannot answer why God chose to extend the life of my son. Only He knows why He chooses to heal or withhold healing. What I do know is that Bryan's quiet spirit and deep love for God and people inspire all of us privileged to be around him. He never complains about his limitations nor does he focus on what he cannot do. He is obedient, kind, and exceedingly patient. He set his eyes early on Jesus and today, at the age of sixteen, still walks confidently after Him.

Through my speakers, the Maranatha Band sings, "Oh Lord You know the number of my days. I want to live my life for You." How true those words are. Is it the amount of our days that is important or is it what we do with what we have that matters? We are so easily preoccupied with trivial things. We are so easily consumed by what ultimately fades into oblivion. Consequently we miss so many opportunities to invest in what is eternal. Days rightly lived are not about coveting wealth, popularity, or power. Such things will not impress our Creator. Good days are measured by faith, obedience, and a simple, pure love for God reflected in our worship. Through them we gain wisdom.

On this milestone I give thanks for Bryan and pray that his numbered days will lead to millions finding the joy in Jesus he has—for the glory of our Maker.

Inspiration

If life is to have meaning, and if God's will is to be done, all of us have to accept who we are and what we are, give it back to God, and thank Him for the way He made us. What I am is God's gift to me; what I do with it is my gift to Him.—Warren W. Wiersbe in Be Myself