The Spirituality of Birthdays

Everyone needs a little cake on their birthday.

Today is my mama’s birthday, so I’m going to start this post by saying, “Happy Birthday Mama!” She always made such a big deal over birthdays when I was growing up. Even when I was in college, she and Daddy would trek up to Athens with my little brother in tow, and bring cake, ice cream and presents. They would take me and my sister out to dinner at the restaurant of my choice. Then, we would return to my apartment and sing “Happy Birthday”, blow out candles and open presents.

My roommates were always kind of stunned at the big birthday celebrations. But, I think Mama got it right. The day you were born, is the day that God officially placed you on this earth to play a part in His big plan. It’s not some chance day. He doesn’t do anything haphazardly. The Bible tells us that you were, “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Since you are a masterpiece of God’s making, wouldn’t it stand to reason that He celebrates your birth and your birthday?

This is also one of those examples where children and seniors get it right. Children love to celebrate birthdays. Sometimes they get to wear a crown all day at school. They bring treats to share with friends and they have parties. Folks in their 80’s seem very happy with birthdays. They have come to realize that each day is a gift.

Those of us in the middle, between like 30 and 80, we are the ones who get it wrong. We lament about wrinkles, gray hair and extra pounds. We get depressed because we are a year older and haven’t done the things we thought we would by now. We often long for our youth and get stuck either reliving the past or beating ourselves up over decisions made that can’t be changed. I shouldn’t have to tell you who wins, when we do that.

We forget about the vast amount of wisdom we have been allowed to accumulate on our trips around the sun. We judge ourselves by human standards and not by God’s standards. We forget to acknowledge this beautiful gift of life we have been given. If we are still breathing, God’s plan is still in play through us and each day is a new beginning.

Paul tells us in Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” God is not done, so we are not done.

So, Happy Birthday to mom and to everyone reading this. If today’s not your birthday, save this post in a folder and read it on your birthday to remind yourself that today is your special day. God loves you and is working through you and you are still impacting His kingdom. Today’s a day to celebrate. Celebrate His unique creation that is you. I have no doubt that He is celebrating too.

Have an awesome day!

Wendy 🙂