For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.

Ephesians 2:8

“Prepare for the maybe.” The store banner highlighted the prediction of yet another hurricane to hit Florida. So, as we “prepared for the maybe” by filling the bathtub and counting batteries, we were grounded in the present by anticipating the future. Although the 2025 hurricane season approaches our area, one fact is shared by all older adults: focusing on the future is not always easy. During this season of life, attention can be diverted by health concerns, financial worries, and even the challenges of getting through today. But viewing each day through faith-shaped lenses lifts spirits even when the storms of life are imminent. St. Paul sets the stage for rejoicing with us by describing these special glasses, “as the gift of God.” Unknowns lie ahead. However, wearing faith-shaped glasses allows us to focus on a future that promises eternal life with Him.

Mary Manz Simon
Ft. Myers, FL

Dear Lord, may the certainty of knowing we will live with You in heaven replace any fear of the future. Amen.

Reflect: Instead of “preparing for maybe” what steps are you taking to “prepare for heaven”?

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:1 and Hebrews 13:14