But I am like a green olive tree
in the house of God.
I trust in the steadfast love of God
forever and ever.
Psalm 52:8, ESV
Today was a reminder of so many good things. John’s family celebrated his 80th birthday, even though he was no longer around to celebrate with them. The family had said their final goodbyes this side of heaven only a month prior, and no one was ready to let John’s birthday go by without the usual celebration. They looked at old pictures, told favorite stories, baked his favorite cake, and honored his memory in ways he would have enjoyed.
Like a great olive tree, John had solid roots, tall branches, and bore fruit in this world for many years. His life had been marked by integrity, servant leadership, and tenderness toward those he loved most. His effect on their lives will remain tangible for years to come. Essentially, John had numbered his days and made them count for God’s purposes.
Likewise, one of the Lord’s admonitions to us in the Bible is to number our days. In other words, don’t take each breath for granted, because one does not know when the Lord is finished counting them. Only the fool thinks they will be young forever, but wise know that life passes in the blink of an eye.
Moses prayed in the one psalm attributed to him, “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). God’s days are eternal, but ours are numbered and limited. It is eternal God who has all wisdom, and it is to Him we turn in prayer for wisdom on how to best use our fleeting days for His glory.
Although this life is short, the care and protection of God for His people are comforting promises. God Himself is our home: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations” (Psalm 90:1). Through all the generations of mankind’s existence, from Genesis to this moment, God has promised to preserve and protect us. Even in the Garden of Eden, He promised that He would redeem His creation (Gen. 3:15). God remains the home of His people and the only source of wisdom because He is the redeeming God who keeps His promises.
The olive tree represents all those like John who have been drawn into eternity. Their lives here are complete, and they leave behind a legacy of a life lived for God. Today, you have the opportunity to live your life as it was intended. Give of yourself, lift another up, be a blessing, and love well. Number your days. You will never regret that.
Our life is not our own!!!