Robin Williams was known for his comedies and crazy antics. But he also delivered great dramatic performances. In Dead Poets Society, he plays a high school English teacher with unorthodox teaching methods. In one such lesson, he brings the class to the hallway where trophies and pictures of previous classes reside. He uses this moment to challenge the class to consider their fleeting life. “Because we are food for worms, lads,” he tells them before introducing the Latin phrase “carpe diem.” It means “seize the day,” which is what he believes leads to an extraordinary life. 

Solomon also brings our attention to the risk of letting the days pass us by haphazardly. I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind (Ecclesiastes 1:14). As he nears the end of his book, he also has words for the youth: Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth…Remember also your creator in the days of your youth (Ecclesiastes 11:9, 12:1). 

Life goes by too fast for us not to make the most of what of God has given us, no matter our age. Though our eternal destiny is more than food for worms, Father Time is undefeated. God has numbered our days so we should see them as a gift. I can’t claim to have mastered this, but here are ways I try to seize each day as a gift from God: 

1) Appreciate the small, everyday gifts from God. This can be a fresh cup of coffee, a hug or kiss from a loved one, a peaceful evening on the porch, a nice meal with those you love, or laughter with your family. 

2) Learn Christ-centered contentment the way Paul describes in Philippians 4:10-13. 

3) Serve and love others. I can’t imagine I will look back and regret times I helped those in need or loved the ones closest to me. Live a life that will be missed one day. 

4) Follow Jesus. This is obviously most important, else we are just fertilizer for daisies. So really follow Him, don’t just attend church a few times and say a few prayers. Trust Him. Obey Him. Be devoted to Him. 

5) And finally, follow these words from missionary Jim Elliot.: “Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.” 

Carpe diem. 

By Philip Jones 

Philip and his wife Stacy have been attending Immanuel since 2015. They are blessed to be raising four kids. His passion in ministry is to help others follow Jesus through teaching, preaching, and personal discipleship.