The redbuds are in full bloom here in my part of Virginia. I was driving home the other day and soaking up their beauty and appreciating our God who shares such beauty with us.

I was also feeling a little sad, because I know that in a few weeks their beauty will fade. The beauty is temporary, not permanent.

The Japanese have a term for this feeling: mono no awari. They have a whole literature of poetry about the passing beauty of the cherry blossoms.

I think this idea is captured in Psalm 90. It reflects on how quickly human life passes. The 70-80 years of an average life span passes quickly. He compares it to grass that is flourishing in the morning dew but faded and withered after a day exposed to sun and wind and feet.

The beautiful things in life pass way too quickly. So he reminds us to appreciate them while they are here. Parents with children often understand this to some degree. "They're growing up so fast."

The Psalm places this in contrast to God, who is eternal. We should enjoy the passing beauty of each thing in the moment, but our ultimate satisfaction comes from meditating on and appreciating God and God's steadfast love. That brings permanent joy and gladness. Try reading slowly through Psalm 90 and thinking deeply about what it says. Meanwhile, I'm going to enjoy the redbuds while they last, and my family and friends while they are here, and my God who is forever.

©Jeff Fletcher