Life is a never-ending cycle of first and lasts, isn't it! It would seem logical that firsts should occur most frequently in one's younger years, and lasts would come thick and fast toward the end of life. Not so! Both firsts and lasts come all through life. I certainly remember some of my own firsts. I have clear memories of my first day of school and the first time I rode a bike. But the last baby tooth that I pulled and the last time I ever saw some of my schoolmates after graduation also came in my childhood or youth. At the other end of life's spectrum, the day I moved out of my beloved home was balanced out with my first day in a wonderful retirement community. Saying goodbye to a longtime job was countered by new opportunities for volunteering and long-awaited travel. You can likely remember many firsts and lasts in your own life as well.

The Bible is also full of firsts and lasts. Eve, the first woman, gave birth to Cain, the first human baby. Noah and his family were an interesting contradiction of firsts and lasts. They were the last members of the human race remaining after the great flood, but they were also the first (and only) family to step out of the ark onto dry ground, giving humanity a new start after the flood had subsided. The Bible itself begins with the words, "In the beginning… " (Genesis 1:1 NLT) and ends with Jesus' words, "Yes, I am coming soon!" (Revelation 22:20b NLT) foretelling the end of time as we know it. Even more specific firsts and lasts are Jesus' words about Himself as the ultimate beginning and end of all things: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." (Revelation 22:13 NLT)

So, what difference does this musing about firsts and lasts, beginnings and endings make in our everyday lives? These firsts and lasts bring spice, significance, and a rhythm and purpose to life. Just as years and seasons move regularly and predictably through time, so do memorable events that serve as markers in our lives.

As we reflect on our lives, we can remember significant firsts and lasts. May these milestones remind us of meaningful points and steps along the way. Placing my faith in Jesus as my Redeemer was the beginning of a lifelong walk of maturing trust. My last day on earth will be only the beginning of eternity in heaven. What meaningful firsts and lasts in your life are you grateful for — or looking forward to?

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, You have created time, which can serve as a way of marking important junctures in our lives. May we pause to remember meaningful firsts and lasts, giving thanks for their purpose and meaning. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.