I was talking to a precious lady at a recent Senior Potluck. We are about the same age, we both have health challenges, and we both love the LORD. We both share the same desires for the future. We want to have clarity of mind to be able to testify about our Wonderful LORD and have a body that will allow us to be active in ministry until our LORD calls us home to Him.
I know for me, also, that means going about these things despite the pain that accompanies my days. When I was young, I looked forward to “getting over” those times of discomfort and pain that would hit me occasionally. I got over colds. I got over the flu. I got over a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Now I realize there is no “getting over” an aging body. Each day is a challenge to ignore the pain and fatigue and keep moving. Sometimes I can do that, and sometimes I must simply give in and rest, hoping tomorrow will be better.
The Bible does not ignore the challenges of old age and the fact that strength does fade. Psalm 71 is a prayer for God’s continuing faithfulness: “And now, in my old age, don’t set me aside. Don’t abandon me when my strength is failing.” [vs 8-10 NLT]
But Psalm 92 is God’s promise that He will remain faithful – that those who are planted in the House of the LORD “will still bear fruit in old age, healthy and green, to declare: ‘The Lord is just; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” [vs 13-15 HCSB]
Amen & Amen