March 27, 2018
Psalm 71:1-14…“Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength is spent.” vs. 9
None of us can avoid the process of aging, but we tend to do whatever we can to slow it down. We eat natural and organic foods, take our vitamins and supplements, make sure we get plenty of exercise, and hope that we can get a few more healthy years under our belts. It does seem to work to some extent. We’re living longer than our parents and many are able to find great joy in those extended years of retirement. But just living longer really isn’t enough. We’d also like to be appreciated and valued in our communities. Our greatest fear is that expressed by the psalmist: that somehow we would be cast off or forsaken in the time of old age. We hate the idea of being discounted or considered a burden when our bodies begin to fail us–as they will always do, in spite of our best efforts. What a blessing it is to live among those who appreciate the wisdom of their elders and who love to hear their stories–even for the hundredth time! Our faith community has always put a premium on that kind of loving, and even had a commandment designed to insure it. “Honor your father and your mother,” we remind our children, and sometimes forget that those words were included in the law to protect the aged.
Thought for the Day: What does aging feel like for me?
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