And the world is passing away along with its desires,
but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
1 John 2:17
On my birthday, I walked from our home to Holmes Wharf to exercise, see the sunrise, feel the morning sea breeze, and meditate. That’s a total of 15,000+ steps, to and fro.
My wife and I love the wharf because it lets you be as far from the shore as possible while promenading on a safe platform.
I believe many people here feel the same way.
I sat on one of the benches at the tip of the wharf, enjoying the morning scenery, and started reflecting on a verse and the photo I took earlier.
The verse I meditated on is found in 1 John 2:17, which says:
And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:17
As the Lord adds another year to my life, I can’t help but reflect on the things I haven’t accomplished yet.
I admire those who made a bucket list when they were younger and have been able to check off their dreams and achievements over the years.
1 John 2:15-16 reminds me:
15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.
As I strolled along Harbour Street toward the wharf, the 19th-century atmosphere of the area enveloped me.
The morning sun cast golden rays on the charming Victorian-era buildings lining the street, highlighting their intricate architectural details.
Amid this historical backdrop, I spotted a sleek Tesla parked along Harbour Street. Its modern design contrasted strikingly with the classic facades around it.
I couldn’t resist capturing the scene with my phone camera, blending the old with the new.
To someone unfamiliar with Oamaru’s Victorian precinct, one might think a time traveller from 2025 has travelled back to the 1870s in their Tesla.
The Tesla seemed lost in time among the 1870s Victorian buildings. I don’t know how many years, but I can assume that the buildings will outlive Tesla, yet both will pass away.
My bucket list feels more like a prayer list I present to the Lord for His guidance and provision. One significant lesson I’ve gained from this prayer list is the virtue of waiting patiently for His answers.
At my age and with my work, seeking and obeying His will is more important than the temporary things the world offers.
1 John 2:17 reminds me that doing God’s will is primary because it endures forever.
Is doing the will of God at the top of your bucket list? It must be.
Let’s choose to do God’s will, for He abides in us forever, especially since life is not very long to miss out on doing His will for you and enjoying His blessings.
I thank you all who greeted me, online and offline. May God bless you all!
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