OLD AGE

“They will still bear fruit in old age…”  Psalm 92:14

Yesterday, according to the calendar, was Grandparents day. It made me think of my grandparents who are at home with the Lord. I remember the huge sugar cookies my Grandmother always baked. I’d walk into her home and the fragrance was awesome. No matter what time of the day it was, she always offered me one, saying, “Don’t tell your mother.”

Then there was Grandpa. It seemed like he was a huge man to a little girl like me. He was a lion on the outside, but a kitten on the inside. I loved climbing into his lap as he sat in his overstuffed chair in the living room, by the window, smoking his pipe. His lap seemed so safe. I snuggled down into his comfy body. The two of us would just sit there. When we are young, we automatically think that they will be with us always. But, that was 80+ years ago, now all I have is my memories.

Many children waste precious time being with their grandparents. There is so much to do in this lifetime that we do not think any farther than this moment. We go through life like “chickens with their heads cut off!!” If you have ever seen that you would know what I mean. My dad raised and butchered chickens for us to eat—and for the eggs they would produce. I’d watch him as the axe came down and the chickens’ head and fell to the ground. Then he would lay the rest of the headless chicken on the ground and, wouldn’t you know, that chicken would flop around all over the place! That is what many do though out their lifetime—wasting precious moments.

This is where I am today—in my old age. But, God’s word tells me that even in my old age, He will not abandon me. (Psalm 72:18) I will still be able to bear fruit. (Psalm 92:14) Even when I am old and gray He will be with me. (Isaiah 46:14)

I read a story about an 88 year old woman who was very beautiful. She was very meticulous about her appearance. Then one day she fell breaking bones in her neck. Of course, she was hospitalized and then, in rehab, and had to wear a Martian-like brace on her head and neck. She worked hard at her re-habilitation. One day she looked at herself in the mirror. She was horrified! She said, “I look terrible! I need to go to the beauty shop!” Her daughter made the appointment and took her. Next she wanted her nails done and her make-up. What she said next resonated with me and perhaps it will with you. She said, “I might seem old and rickety, but I’m still me.” (Strength & Grace 365 Daily Devotions, September 7, by Pat Dyson)

Now, I am a grandparent who is old and gray. I’m a little less agile and little un-kept at times, but I am still the same on the inside and have much to offer my children and grandchildren—if they would listen.

Don’t miss any time that you could spend with your parents and grandparents. Each moment is precious and one day all you will have is your memories.

“Even when I am old and gray, God, do not abandon me. Then I will proclaim Your power to another generation. Your strength to all who are to come.” Psalm 72:18

Father, thank You for bringing me through all the circumstances and situations of my life. I continue to rely upon Your wisdom, even now, in my old age. There is much yet to do. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen