We humans like to flatter ourselves that we are a special creation, set apart from the rest of nature. While in some respects that is true, it is also a painful reality that we are subject to the identical laws as the animal kingdom. We shall surely die just as every creature on earth inevitably breathes its last. Just as every animal, regardless of its lethal power, will ultimately return to dust, so we too, despite the glory of our humanity, will eventually be reduced to dust as well.
These are crass, disturbing truths that most people are loath to contemplate.
While it can be morbid to dwell upon our mortality, it can produce a profound humility. For we will not live forever, or even necessarily long. Our health can deteriorate at any time. We can be victimized by accidents or illness at the most unexpected of moments.
However, rather than becoming cynical or pessimistic, these facts ought to provide us with a sober view of our life and purpose. We should not live our lives as if we have plenty of time to do what must be done. We must passionately seize each day that we have been granted. We must savor relationships and the simple pleasures of life. We must not presume we have ample time to make mend broken relationships. Rather, we must live as creatures of dust who have limited time to accomplish God’s purposes. Knowing our future ought to inspire our present.