A university student once posed a profound question to Billy Graham, inquiring about the greatest surprise he had encountered in life. Without hesitation, Billy Graham responded, “The brevity of life….Almost before we know it, the years have passed and life is almost over.”
On one hand, the brevity of life should ignite a sense of urgency within us. If we desire to live for Christ and share His message with others, we must seize the present moment. As Jesus stated, “The night is coming when no one can work.” Recognizing the fleeting nature of our existence should propel us into action, knowing that our opportunities to make an impact are limited.
On the other hand, the brevity of life can bring solace and reassurance. Life is short, yet eternity stretches before us. When faced with overwhelming suffering or daunting challenges, we can take comfort in the knowledge that they are only temporary. Reflecting on the words of Paul, who wrote, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,” we understand that what we perceive with our eyes is transient.
It is crucial not to live as if this life will continue indefinitely, for it won’t. Instead, we should embrace a perspective that encompasses eternity. Let us approach each day with the understanding that our time here is limited, motivating us to live purposefully and leave a lasting impact. By keeping eternity in view, we can navigate life’s brevity with wisdom, purpose, and a focus on what truly matters.
