James 1:17 NIV — Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Yesterday I reminded you that my word of the year for 2023 is relish. My mantra, or phrase, I have written down every day of 2023, and on which I have focused, is taken from and is the title of an Emily Dickinson poem “Forever — is composed of nows.” Click here to read the full poem and a commentary about the poem.

After reading the poem, spend some time thinking about the words. The last phrase of the poem refers to “anno Domini” which is Medieval Latin meaning “in the year of the Lord.” How do you interpret Dickinson’s poem? I think Emily Dickinson was encouraging her readers to live in the present, relish this moment, and realize God’s presence in the now. What do you think? Each day, as I have written this phrase, I have been encouraged to focus on now. I pray you, too, will be able to relish the “now” of today. 

Let’s pray. Dear God, thank You for today. Thank You for now. Help me to focus on now. May all that I say and do now be pleasing and honor You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.