The Miracle Of Lasts

Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

The last time I spoke with my sister was on a Thursday night. She looked tired but laughed at her husband’s jokes. I related a funny commercial I’d seen on TV, and we made plans to scrapbook together when she was home from the hospital.

After five years of battling breast cancer, a hospital stay wasn’t extraordinary, and neither was our conversation. It was my birthday the next day, and I was in a rush to get home. I told her I loved her and said goodbye.

But by Saturday, her condition had worsened. Keeping her comfortable was all the doctors could do. By the time I arrived, she was no longer able to speak.

I’ve got mixed feelings about that Thursday night. I wish I hadn’t been in a hurry, but I’m glad I visited. And I know she loved me, just as she knew I loved her.

Yet, that lesson of “lasts” remains. Now, as often as I think of it, I try to ask myself: What if this were the last time? What if this were my final cup of coffee—wouldn’t I savor it more? What if this were my last shower—wouldn’t I notice the warmth of the water and the scent of my cherry almond shampoo? What if this were the last time my daughter squeezed me around the waist or I saw our home in my rearview mirror?

The idea makes me pause. Would I reach for patience instead of peevishness when I have a conflict with a loved one? Would I demonstrate grace rather than grumpiness when I encounter an issue at work?

The truth is that all of our experiences will eventually lead to Thursday night conversations. We will always have to reconcile our lasts until we get to heaven. But rather than mourning what we’ve lost, let’s reconsider it as an opportunity for joy. Let’s take the time to notice the moments—big or small—that add up to the sum of our days. Let’s recognize each moment as a gift and an opportunity to bring glory to God and gratitude to our hearts.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Focus on how grateful you’d be for each part of your life if you knew this would be the last time you experienced it.