I am your passing guest, an alien, like all my fore-bearers. (Psalm 39: 12)

The psalmist writes that we are God’s “passing guests.” What a revelation that image is to us! What a new and wonderful way to look at life! We are guests on this earth and God is a good and perfect Host! We are totally dependent on God’s hospitality. Food, shelter, companionship, security, even our ultimate salvation–all that we have is ultimately provided by God. As grateful guests, we seek to honor and glorify our Host by living in a way that displays our gratitude and love.

The image also carries the idea that we are passing through, here only temporarily. Our situation is not permanent. As my health has begun to change with age, that truth becomes more and more evident. One day I will go from being a passing guest in this world to a permanent home with my Host. I pray that I will live my remaining days here in a way that pleases God, a way that shows appreciation for the accommodations that have been provided me as a guest. I pray also that when it is time to leave, I may leave gracefully and joyously.

Thank You, Holy Creator, for being such a good and generous Host during my visit here on earth. And thank You for the eternal home You have prepared for me when I am finished with my visit!