With long life I will satisfy them, and show them my salvation.” vs. 16
Psalm 91:14-16
Humans have always appreciated longevity, and the psalmist considered long life to be one of God’s choicest blessings. Most of us would agree, and do whatever we can to increase our years. We’re deeply aware that not everyone gets a chance to live long; some don’t survive infancy and too many fall prey to accident, war, or disease before they’ve even reached thirty. Knowing that death can come at any age adds appreciation for the years we do get, and drives our desire to add even more. In our times, advanced medical procedures and careful attention to nutrition and exercise have enabled many to live far beyond expectations. Centenarians are becoming more common and, barring disease or accident, most people fully expect to live into their 80’s and 90’s. What’s been discovered though, is that sometimes old age isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be. Quality of life issues pop up regularly with advancing years and we wonder if getting old is always a blessing. Sometimes the memory goes, arthritis can make movement a pain, and loneliness is often an issue. Life can become a burden–it’s not strange then that some begin to despair and even long for an ending. But when our genetic wiring is good and we can age with faculties and bodies intact, life continues to bring delight, and each day is greeted with thanksgiving. We may not know how many we have left, but thank God for today!
Thought for the Day: What do I fear about aging?
0 Comments