Why are birthdays so important? The Book of Job says, “Man, who is born of woman, is short-lived and fun of turmoil. He comes forth like a flower and withers. He also flees like a shadow and does not remain.” (Job 14:1-2) Later it says, “Since his days are determined, the number of his months is with You (referring to God); and his limits You have set so that he cannot pass.” (Job 14:5) That’s a pretty negative view. Later in the book, Job’s wife, because of the suffering that had befallen him, advised Job to curse the day he was born so that God would take him. (In Old Testament times, it was assumed that the gift of life was of ultimate value since it was a gift from God. Therefore, to curse the day one was born was to reject not only the gift, but God as well!)
As we fast forward to the 21st Century, the celebration of a birthday is a big thing. Anne and I are going to see Amy and family in order to celebrate Olivia’s birthday. Children’s birthdays in New York City are big events. This year, Olivia is having a bowling party! Last year, Amelia took some friends to Broadway. Children may be oblivious to the divine importance of birthdays; but, it is likely that many adults today choose to focus on other things at the annual remembrance of one’s birth. In fact, it has been quite a common thing to hear for the last 50 years that one simply wants to “quit having birthdays.” It doesn’t mean to abandon life. It simply means that one does not want to be reminded of getting older.
Friends, I had rather get older than to stop the process! And, my birthday (many months away) is a big deal to me. I am grateful for life; and, I view life as a divine gift as I believe God intended. A few years ago, Amy gave me a birthday party when I turned 75. When she told her friends in NYC, some said, “Does someone stay with him? Is he able to get about?” To which Amy declared, “He drives a Corvette and is so busy I can’t catch him on the phone!”
Until recently, I was almost frustrated to turn out the light at night. I didn’t want to give up on the day. I wanted to keep on experiencing life—without interruption! Since then, I have begun to notice I am able to do less than I did just a couple of years ago. I have accepted the fact that I am older and weaker. But, I still have a passion for living—and I value that passion, not just because I like what I do and where I am at this point in my life. I also attribute that passion for living because I feel a partnership with God. I believe that God is with me and wants the best for me. I hope you share this passion for life with me!
Michael D. O’Bannon, Pastor