It is sad that as our chronological clock ticks silently away marking each childhood day, we slip into adulthood and then onto the slide of elderhood. The approach of elderhood is sometimes denied, leading to the building of false facades such as were popular in early settler towns. This is sad. Elderhood, although it is not the crown of glory for which we hope, it is a mantle that we shall carry into the holy and glorious presence of the Eternal One.
Often we equate elderhood with the accumulated wisdom one gathers during their earthly journey. The sharing of such wisdom can be beneficial to the next generation when the appropriate teaching/sharing moment arises. However there is more to elderhood than being a sage.
Elderhood is the opportunity to quietly sit in the holy presence of the One who gave his life for us that we may receive the inner strength needed to face the hurts we have experienced and acknowledge the hurts we have caused, so that we may give forgiveness, receive forgiveness, and be made whole. As these burdens are laid down at the foot of the Cross, elderhood becomes a time of true joy as we look forward in faith to our eternal redemption as the children of God, sisters and brothers of Jesus our Lord.
Bible Reading: Proverbs 9:10; Matthew 12: 48-50; 1 Corinthians 1:24-31