'How did I get here so quickly?'

The Fourth of July is always a special time of the year. The barbeques, fireworks and all those things that remind us of the greatness that has been accomplished in the American experiment are honored on July the 4.

This year is particularly special; it is my birthday. Not just a birthday; my 40th birthday.

Now, I know that for many readers 40 years was a memory ago; while others see 40 as such along way off. In either case I am the one turning 40.

I used to wonder what it would be like to be 40. Would I, as the Beach Boys pondered, "dig the same things that turned me on as a kid?" Would I be more comfortable with myself? What would my family, my home look like? Would I finally have that flying car the Jetsons promised?

Other than the prophetic question of the Beach Boys, nothing of what I thought it would be to be 40 has proven to be. My family is more than I imagined. My home is nothing like I imagined. As far as being more comfortable with myself: that is still up for debate.

I do, however, find myself sitting on the cusp of this milestone asking the same question again and again; "How did I get here so quickly?"

Psalm 90:4 says, "For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night."

In a thousand years we as a people have seen governments birthed and toppled. Great visions have called out from great nations by great men and women. There have been dreamers sitting on the hillside wondering what the moon is like to a scientist who stepped on its surface, bringing home samples for all to see. We have experienced so many things in a thousand years. To God, that was yesterday afternoon.

The time that you and I have this side of eternity is brief. It is a vapor. A mist. At the same time a precious gift.

These first 40 years have passed so quickly. The next will pass just the same. This brevity should not create anxiety, but call for a greater trust in God, who is above all time.

My days, my minutes are in the hands of the one who formed centuries. His providence and care allow me to embrace every milestone. Especially the big ones.

Robert Hurtgen is a husband, father, minister and writer. Read more of him at robhurtgen.wordpress.com.