Life is but a vapor.

When I got the call from my sister that her mother-in-law had passed away, I immediately felt the tears come. But there was something else deep down inside that began welling up. I don't think I've ever sobbed so hard so quickly. I'm not sure my heart knew what to do -- it was beating at a very rapid, odd pace. Judah happened to be with Matt and I, so he got a clear picture of fresh grief which Matt had to explain. After a while, I was able to regain composure... then the more sober processing began.

What must it be like for Rich, Marta's husband, to lose the love of his life? What was it like for Autumn to have to wake her husband up to tell him his mother was gone from this earth? What is it like for Andy, Emily, and Ben to no longer have their momma to call or be with? For Erik, Hailey, and Noah to not get to see Grandma anymore?

She's free from pain and tears. And we are left with pain and tears -- grief. I'm thankful for the emotion. I'm thankful God gave us tears. Grief and tears help us humans process. And I'm also thankful that the grief over losing Marta is not life shattering. It seems to be a very thoughtful, sweet grief as we remember the woman she was. So full of joy, friendliness, passion for Jesus.

Tonight, as we were going through many photos of Marta's life -- from childhood to present day -- I was struck with a fresh understanding of two Scriptural principles. Life is but a vapor, and the Lord has numbered our days. Staring at the flirtatious young redhead, the 80's dressed pregnant mom, the mother of the bride, Grandma with her kiddos... Only the Lord knew that all of her days were adding up to this past Sunday when she met Him face to face. She was moving through her life. All around her were moving through life. Not one of us knowing when she would step into eternity. Sixty-one years. Seems like a long time, but I know that for many who love her, including myself, it seems all too short now. Especially Rich. But according to the Lord, it was the perfect amount of earthly life for Marta Bruckman.

Let this serve as a motivation for us to make the most of each moment. Cherish your spouse. Take time for your children. Speak kindly to all. Enjoy the life God has given you. Do your work heartily as unto the Lord. Help when you can. Make it all count as much as possible. Love God with all of who you are. Give your Creator glory with all that you can muster.

Your days are numbered.