Enjoy every day

"Sunshine is sweet; it is good to see the light of day. People ought to enjoy every day of their lives, no matter how long they live. But they should also remember this: You will be dead a long time. Everything that happens then is useless." Ecclesiastes 11:7-8 NCV

Now there's yet another reason to get outside for some fresh air and exercise. A recent study published in the journal Aging Clinical and Experimental Research suggests that people with high levels of vitamin D who contract COVID-19 have less severe symptoms than those people with low levels of the vitamin scientists refer to as a powerhouse when it comes to protective effects. And while you and I can get the recommended 1,500 to 2,000 IU (International Units) by consuming foods that are rich in vitamin D like salmon, eggs and tuna, researchers said "you could rely on the old standby: sunshine" of which 10-20 minutes would provide the daily dose needed to boost a person's vitamin D levels. I don't know about you but I'm opting to get my vitamin D from the sun. 

And you know, I'm not the only one who loves being out in the sunshine. Solomon, himself, said, "sunshine is sweet" and that it was good for us to spend time in it. He went on to say that you and I ought to enjoy every day of our lives because, in comparison to the infinite time we will spend in eternity, our lives are incalculably short - something that we would do well to remember because it will affect the way we spend our days and the decisions that we make. You see, when you and I make the conscious choice to regularly reflect on how brief and fleeting our lives are, we will treasure each day for the gift that it is and not fill it with "useless" things, thoughts, or habits that have no eternal impact.

So let us indeed enjoy the sunshine and the day the Lord has given us. It is a blessing indeed! But more importantly, let us use this day and every day hereafter to make an impact in this world - to be a light in the darkness that leads others to the foot of the Cross before it's too late.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing the sun to rise each day and for the millions of other things You have blessed us with. And while it's good for us to enjoy these things, help us to not get wrapped up in them but to focus on doing things that will have an eternal impact. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Alive & Breathing - Matt Maher