The godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon; for they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is no evil in him!” Psalm 92:12-15 NLT
Heavenly Father, I don’t know the age of the Psalm writer was who penned this song of hope for the aging, but I have an aunt who proves he wasn’t exaggerating. A long overdue call to my aunt yesterday, rescued me from a whine-fest and pity-party, and ignited a vision for finishing this life “fruitful, vital, and green.”
Indeed, through our “outer man” will wear out, your Spirit can keep a gospel-party going on in the inside of our hearts, until the day you take us home. Thank you for giving me a fresh taste, glimpse, and hope of finishing this journey with intentionality and passion, joy and peace. Among the amazing array gospel mentors and models you’ve given me, I bless you this morning for my 86 year-old Aunt Cynthia.
She’s proven to me, octogenarians are just as much prime candidates for the renewing work of the Holy Spirit as high school students on a Young Life trip. Her mind is razor-sharp, her heart is so alive to your goodness and faithfulness, and she’s always looking for someone to serve. Father, help me follow Jesus, as my beloved aunt does.
Father, help all of us gain a clearer vision of finishing well. Continue to feed and nourish our hearts with the gospel, that we might flourish and nourish others. Free us from notions of a self-absorbed retirement. Rescue us from fears of growing older, unwanted, and unnecessary. Make Jesus more precious to us the older we get. Fill our hearts with childlike wonder, kingdom joy, and increasing hope. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ great and gracious name.
