In our society today, many are afraid of getting old and take great lengths and expense to stage off the aging process.
I was recently reminded of the following: “I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.” Isa. 46:4
“They (our older sisters and brothers in Jesus) still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” Ps. 92:15
“We do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” 2 Cor. 4:16
Heavenly Father, thank you for our moms and dads, and peers in the Gospel who give new meaning to the phrase “aging gracefully.” Aging “full of grace” is a better descriptor of who they are.
They love Jesus more now than ever—less childish, but more childlike in wonder, love, and praise. Realistic about the challenges that go with “the outer-self wasting away,” their inner heart-renewal is attractive, encouraging, and hope-fueling.
Though their “bark” is thinner, and they have less “leaves,” “they are ever full of sap and green”—declaring your truth, goodness, and beauty—still bearing fruit in old age. Increase their tribe.
Thank you, Father, for you made us, hid our lives in Christ, care for us, and will carry us all the way into the new heaven and new earth. We choose to worship you more than we whine about getting old. So very Amen, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
Kathy Collier
Former BYNA Elder