Regardless of how good life may be or how difficult it seems, there are certain things that we treasure. These items or times may be some valuable possessions like gold, silver, jewelry, antiques, etc. Other items may be letters, cards, watches, pens, etc. We cherish these items because of their worth or because someone special gave them to us and they remain keepsakes. However, there can be moments that are more important and crucial to us that those material items.
When I thought about a recent treasure I had received, it was these profound words from a collection of writings by a dear friend who died a few months ago. His words were: “Life is not about the number of breaths we take, but about the moments that take our breaths away.” The family gave me the notebook that he had inscribed those profound words and I consider them a treasure. His point was that it did not matter how long he lived or we live, he and we could rejoice in the fullness of life reflecting on the goodness of God in His time.
Another point was that we may breathe approximately 17,000 to 28,000 breaths a day. Yes, that is important because breathing is what sustains us. However, in his case, he knew that death was lurking and he was going to cherish those things he could do with his family before he closed his eyes for the last time. Even in his sickness he cherished the time with family and friends. Just being able to get in the car with his daughter and drive around town were treasured moments. Having conversations with his son about the good times and challenges he overcame in life were treasured moments. The granddaughters who loved him dearly just took his breath away when they sat on his lap or called him Pop-Pop. He lived a full life with his wife and cherished the times spent together in simplicity and on special occasions. He valued and respected friendships and acquaintances who spent quiet time with him in his last days. Our dear friend realized that earthly possessions had very little meaning, for he would have given it all up, wealth and possessions, to continue living in those days and moments that took his breath away.
Beyond those things of simplicity, there were moments on excursions, places far and near that he marveled and spoke about fondly.
All of us. I am sure, have those moments and times that just take our breaths away because they are exciting, meaningful, exhilarating, fascinating, unimaginable, etc. Some may even be considered miracles. These are events or moments of endearment that we will embrace forever.
Most of us have stored up possessions over the years that we consider to be treasures, but are there moments of joy that you lived that just takes your breath away when you think about them? In other words, those things that take your breath are more meaningful than worldly goods. Those material things may be considered nothing compared to those breathless moments.
The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:19 says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.” Jesus is saying to the crowds not to stockpile temporary treasure on earth. We should be working towards godly goals of storing up rewards in heaven. Where we place our treasure indicates what is the priority of our hearts.
Think about moments that God took your breath away by revealing something unexpected and may be considered too good to be true. May our concentration be on positive things that take our breaths away and not negatives. For if we allow some of the decisions being made by our leaders in this country to dominate our goodness from God, they may begin to consume us.
May we all take time today and reflect on the moments in life that just blew us away or took our breaths. Praise and give God thanks for those moments and occasions. Treasure them!
Just my thoughts!
Robert Earl Slade, Pastor
