May 10, 2022 – Click here to listen
I got this email from a reader:
“Thanks for showing me how to grow old with Jesus. Recent events left me feeling afraid and lonely, believing that I and everyone would be better off if I was dead. But God and a few people like you are showing me otherwise. In Psalm 92:14 we read: Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.
That’s a great promise if we receive it. As we age, we don’t need to become old, musty museums, telling the same old stories, showing off yellowed newspaper clippings. We can be healthy trees, with the sap of God’s love, joy, peace, and righteousness running through our veins. A safe refuge for hurting sincere travelers, and nutritious fruit for those who are hungry and thirsty for what eternally matters.
Keep up the good work, brother.”
What an eloquent way of describing how to grow old gracefully. I know this man has struggled much in his life, but he has arrived at an oasis of knowledge of what our lives should be all about.
I think his description should stir the soul of readers of all ages. I know that it touched me in a special way. Sometimes we get down and out and perhaps feel that the world and everyone in it would be better off without us. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our life experiences can produce fruit and God can be glorified. I suggest reading his letter again. I’ve read it several times in the past few days. Then put it to use and talk to someone about Jesus today.
I’ve heard some elderly people say, “I don’t know why I’m still here. I don’t have anything to live for.” Too often people give up when they lose sight of any meaningful purpose to life and fail to recognize that each new day is a gift from God to be lived as fully as possible. Our faith can help us view each day as a unique opportunity to celebrate our existence and live life to the fullest and with God’s help use our experience to help others. It all revolves around FAITH in God that He loves you and has a purpose for you. I urge you to live it out every day.
Psalm 71:1
“You are my rock and my fortress; in you do I take refuge all the days of my life. For you, Lord, have been my hope and my trust from the days of my youth. Upon you, I have depended from my birth.”