I turned 79 years old today and to celebrate I’m off to have my every monthly infusion for the two stubborn auto-immune diseases that refuse to leave.
When I look back on this past year it seems I spent a great amount of time dealing with doctors, tests, surgery and hospitalization. I joke that I’m really suffering from “Early On-set Rigor Mortis!” The problem with that joke is that it hits too close to home!
In another year I will enter the next decade, my 80’s. I’m hoping to have that privilege. Psalm 90:10 declares, “Seventy years are given to us! Some even live to eighty” but then it adds that, “even the best years are filled with pain and trouble; soon they disappear, and we fly away.” [NLT]
When I look back there are good years and difficult years in the rear view. Life can be hard, full of pain and trouble. But life can also be wonderful, full of joy and purpose.
I surrendered my life to Christ Jesus when I was 26, 53 years ago. It was the best decision, the best way to live life. I was given purpose. I was given joy. I was given a promise that one of these days I really will “fly away.” More than anything I was given grace and mercy and the Presence of the LORD to accompany my days.
Thank you LORD for these 79 years. I’m hoping for 80 (or maybe even a few more!) But however many days there will be, I am so thankful to be Your child. Amen & Amen
