Look to this day
for it is life
the very life of life.
In its brief course lie all
the realities and truths of existence
the joy of growth
the splendor of action
the glory of power.
For yesterday is but a memory
And tomorrow is only a vision.
But today well lived
makes every yesterday a memory of happiness
and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Look well, therefore, to this day.
This ancient Sanskrit poem, called “Salutation To The Dawn” and attributed to the dramatist Kalidisa, dates back to the 4th or 5th century and speaks to celebrating the present. Enjoying today. Appreciating the time we have now. Right now.
While the calendar daily reminds us of each new day, somehow our appreciation of our days is heightened to a greater awareness as we embark upon a new year. It becomes a time of reflection. Introspection. Evaluation. The Bible exhorts us to consider the value of each day.
“The Holy Spirit says, ‘Today if you will hear his voice, do not harden your hearts….” (Heb. 3:7). Today is the day to listen to the Lord. To hear His voice, as He speaks through His Word. Today, allow some time for divine instruction and wisdom to enter your mind and heart.
Today is a day for mutual exhortation. “Exhort one another daily, while it is called today” (Heb. 3:13). Today offer a kind word to a heavy-hearted brother. Write a thank-you note to a friend. Make a phone call to a loved one. Offer assistance to a struggling stranger.
Today ponder your life. Consider your motives. Scrutinize your thoughts. Delve deep in your heart. “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves” (2 Cor. 13:5).
Today look for the good and praise it.
Today see the wonder of God.
Today feel the joy of the present.
Today do something good.
Today work to be a little better.
Look to this day by letting go of yesterday. And not borrowing trouble from tomorrow. Remember, as H. Jackson Brown expressed it, “the best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.”
Today choose life. Choose joy. Choose happiness. Choose truth. Choose growth. Choose action. Choose love. Choose faith. Choose hope.
Today may the words of the Psalmist serve us well. “So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Ps. 90:12).
–Ken Weliever, ThePreacherman
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