Friday, 6/19/15
A good number of them won’t admit it but many people struggle with the reality of growing old and I bet you know some grandparents that don’t like to be called “grandma” or “grandpa.” Sadness, anger, and frustration are among the many emotions that folks that have passed the half-century mark deal with constantly. They are sad because they recall and miss the “good old days”, angry because there is very little they can do about it, and frustrated because they can no longer do things they once did with ease.
On the other hand, being a senior citizen has many perks as well, beginning with sweet deals and discounts everywhere. I was reminded earlier today of another bonus seniors enjoy, one you will notice yourself once you’ve arrived at the doorstep of “the golden years.” Some of you are that already but those of you who have not yet been noticed will one day find that, without any effort on your part, all of a sudden folks everywhere realize that you too are now a “sweetheart”, “darling”, “honey”, “cutie”, or “sweetie pie.” I know some people my age who, though they will not admit it, resent being called by any sweet sounding name, but those who refer to them this way mean well. It is a form of honor and respect. Among the rules for living that God gave to Moses for His people was this one: “Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.”
I bet some of you who are reading today’s blog struggle with the thought of growing old because more than likely you have seen it’s emotional, physical, and other effects on one or more of your loved ones. Humanly speaking, that is understandable. On the other hand, in Christ, there is nothing to fear. The truth is that all people, regardless of their age, struggle with many issues. If it is a genuine concern for you nonetheless, the Lord wants you to know that He’ll be there waiting for you when you get there. There are many more, but here is just one promise to those who fear growing old, one which gives me comfort as well: “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Before I go, here is one more advantage of growing old: Each new day means we are one day closer to seeing Jesus and being reunited with our loved ones who went before us. I trust you will find comfort in that promise, “sweetheart.”
Memory Verse for the week: (John 15:9) “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”
