The Day After

For many years October 31, 2017 was greatly anticipated by my church body.  Even 10 years ago, this day was being used to motivate and to inspire.  Why?  Because that date commemorated 500 years after Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses disputing the sale of indulgences to the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany.  It is a significant day because it set off a series of events that led to the Protestant Reformation, the rediscovery of the Bible, the gracious work of Jesus and the value of every member of God’s church as we work together for the common good.

The anticipation for the day built as churches around the world ramped up their celebration.  Interest in Martin Luther and the Reformation soared.  The day arrived with worship services, celebrations, Luther memes and a plethora of people dressed up as 16^th century German monks for Halloween.  The 500^th anniversary had finally come!

That was yesterday.

What about today?  If you really went all-in for the celebration, you might be feeling a bit of a letdown today.  No doubt, God certainly wants us to remember his work among us, and more than a few times encourages us to throw a big party in the process.  What about the day after?  A few years ago, I was invited to the 100^th birthday party of a church member.  I asked her, “So, what’s the secret to living to 100?”  She said, “Live one day at a time.”  I imagine she would have said that regardless of whether we were partying or not. God taught me something that day.

Maybe that’s why I’ve come to enjoy the day after my birthday as much as the birthday itself.  While I certainly appreciate the special day and all the fun that comes with it, I have also come to savor the day after.  On that day, I clean up the party and face the reality of another year.  On that day, life is normal again.  On that day, I just keep going.  Daily bread is prayed for and received.  The humble and the seemingly mundane are again used by God to show his infinite grace through Christ.  The brokenness of the world wounds yet more people who need the loving embrace of a Christian brother or sister.

Today.

This is the day the Lord has made.  One day at a time is the only way between here and wherever God is taking us.  Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, a large accomplishment or the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation, we get there one day at a time.  Every day is a gift from God, so make the most of it!  …even if it’s the day after.