On this day in 1952, the show This Is Your Life began airing on NPC TV.

You may have heard of this popular television show. Each week, Ralph Edwards, the host, would walk in carrying a large book and say to a shocked person: “________ (person’s name), this is your life.” Then for the next half-hour, significant people from the past would be ushered in one at a time, much to the surprise and delight of the guest. Edwards might say, for example, “This person was your closest companion for three years . . . your babysitter!” Then the former babysitter would walk in and the two would hug, and the babysitter would tell something about the honored person. That may sound boring, but it could be a very emotional show, especially when family and old friends would be reunited.

How would that show play out for you if it were held today? Who would you like to see from your past—people with whom you were close or who played important roles in your life. They could include a friend from your old neighborhood, a favorite teacher, your former piano teacher, a distant relative, or even a babysitter.

Now think of those who should have you on their shows. Have you been that close to anyone in the past? Have you made a significant impact on anyone’s life?

It’s always good to think about this as we live each day because the days pass so quickly, and, before we know it, the years fly by too. Think back to the wall plaque we talked about in August that said “Only one life, it will soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.” It’s true.

That means we should be living each day as though it counts for eternity. So think about it: If God were to surprise you with “This is your life,” what important events would he highlight?

“For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me” (Matthew 25:35, 36).

To Do

Get the addresses from your parents for a few of the significant people in your past. Then write each one a thank-you note.

Also on this day

This is National Heart Magic Day.

This is International Day of Older Persons.

1971—Walt Disney World opened in Orlando, Florida.

From Betsy Schmitt and Dave Veerman, 365 Trivia Twist Devotions: An Almanac of Fun Facts and Spiritual Truth for Every Day of the Year (Cincinnati: Standard, 2005). Scripture quotations are from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted.