Good morning, friends!
As I sit here watching the snow gently fall outside my window in Birmingham, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Snow is such a rare event for us here, and when it happens, it brings a certain kind of magic that reminds me to pause, reflect, and cherish the moment.
Schools in my district are closed today, and I’m at home getting ready to fly out this afternoon for a weekend of leadership training in Dallas, Texas. Fingers crossed the meteorologists are right, and the rain moves in so we can make that flight! But before the busyness of travel sets in, I wanted to take a moment to soak in the beauty of the snowfall and reflect on how much joy it brings—not just to me but to so many others.
Earlier this week, it snowed on Monday, and let me tell you, my students were beside themselves with excitement. Watching their faces light up as they saw the snow falling reminded me of my own childhood in 5th grade. I can vividly recall the teachers who let us enjoy those fleeting moments outside in the snow. Those memories stuck with me, and I’ve made it a point to create the same joy for my students. On Monday, we paused, we laughed, and we made memories—moments that, no matter how hard I try, I won’t be able to replicate.
In life, we often take these sacred, memorable moments for granted. We assume there will always be another opportunity—another snowfall, another chance to spend time with loved ones, another opportunity to tell someone we love them. But the truth is, as the Bible reminds us:
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” – James 4:14 (NIV)
With each passing day, I’m more mindful of the importance of cherishing every moment. I read a quote years ago that said, “Collect moments, not things.” Those words have stuck with me and shaped how I live my life. I give thanks to God for the big and small moments—whether it’s watching snow fall with my students, whale watching with travel friends in Cabo San Lucas, or chasing the most breathtaking sunsets across the globe.
Every single moment is a gift from God, a reminder of how precious and fleeting time is.
This week, I experienced another reminder of life’s fragility. After leaving a morning prayer service, I drove past a car accident. Later, I learned that a police officer—someone who faithfully helped direct traffic for 18 years at Church of the Highlands—had been struck and killed. In an instant, his life on Earth was over, and everything changed for his family and the driver involved.
While our church family and the officer’s loved ones grieve this heartbreaking loss, we do not grieve as the world grieves. As Paul reminds us:
“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:13 (NIV)
This dear man knew Jesus. He is home in Heaven right now, and that truth brings comfort even in the midst of sorrow. Personally, I still wrestle with the question of why tragedy happens and why bad things happen to good people. But as a believer, I hold on to the hope of Heaven—the assurance that this life is not the end for those who call on the name of the Lord.
When my parents passed away, it was Jesus who walked with me through that pain. Knowing that their lives weren’t over, that they simply moved into eternity with Him, brought me so much comfort. I’ve often wondered how people without a relationship with Jesus navigate through loss and tragedy. For me, His presence was my anchor.
Jesus never promised us a life without hardship, but He did promise to walk with us through the valleys. As He said:
“In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (NIV)
So today, I hope this Friday Focus serves as a reminder to you: Be grateful for the moments, both big and small. Never take them for granted. Let’s not overlook the sacredness of the time we have, the beauty of God’s creation, or His overwhelming goodness in our lives.
Whether you’re sitting by a fire watching the snow fall, lounging on a warm beach, or working through your day, take a moment to pause. Tell God how much you love Him. Thank Him for His ultimate sacrifice.
As we’re in this season of 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting at Church of the Highlands, I invite you to join us. If you’re unable to connect with a local church participating, you’re welcome to join us online Monday through Friday at 6:00 AM CST or Saturday at 9:00 AM at www.churchofthehighlands.com.
Thank you for taking the time to read today’s post. If you found it encouraging, I’d love for you to share it and invite others to subscribe to my blog. Let’s make gratitude a daily practice and cherish every moment God gives us.
Blessings,
Bill
P.S. I’d love to hear from you—what moments are you grateful for today? Drop a comment and share!
