Cheslie Kryst’s cause of death has been confirmed following an autopsy; the former Miss USA’s death has been ruled a suicide. She was 30 years old. She became Miss USA in 2019, already an attorney with an MBA. In an essay she wrote in 2021 she said, “turning 30 feels like a cold reminder that I’m running out of time to matter in society’s eyes — and it’s infuriating.”
That statement is one of the saddest statements I have ever read. It is a condemnation of our society that our young people think anyone over 30 no longer matters. No wonder our younger people are struggling.
The Bible has a far different perspective of growing old. The Bible often associates growing old with gaining wisdom. For example, Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.”
I turned 75, three-quarters of a century, last December. I also retired from full-time ministry. Most of the time now people ask me, “How are you enjoying retirement?”
I do not know how to answer that question. I do not know if I am enjoying retirement. My body is not the best, so I have reached the end of being able to be accountable for a ministry. Still, I do not feel as if I am done with ministry.
The Bible also has a perspective on purpose. “I call to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.” and “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me.” [Psalm 57:2, Psalm 138:8 HCSB]
The LORD God Almighty has a purpose for every life. I do not feel that I have fulfilled that purpose completely as yet. I do not know how many more years I will have to do so, but I know I will continue to discover what He still has for me and will continue to fight for the stamina and wisdom to finish the race.
Dear LORD, help us to convey to the young that they are only just beginning to find and fulfill their God-given purpose. Amen.
