Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 OLD AGE THAT COMBINES FAITH AND EXPERIENCE

Scripture  1John 4:7-21 

 Verses 20 and 21: Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar.  For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God,  whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also  love their brother and sister.  

Growing Gracefully: Embracing old age with Love and faith.  
Old age is a phase of life that many of us will experience if we are fortunate enough to live a  long life. It is a time when the journey of faith often intertwines with the wealth of experience  gained over the years.  
In the book of Psalms, we find a verse that beautifully encapsulates the essence of old age:  "Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you,  and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you" (Isaiah 46:4, NIV). This verse reminds  us that even in in our old age, God remains with us, providing us with the strength and support  we need to navigate the challenges that come with aging.  
 1: Love as a Lifelong Journey (1 John 4:20)  
Scripture reminds us in 1 John 4:20 that if someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother or  sister, he is a liar. As we grow older, we've had the opportunity to experience the power of love  in our lives. Old age teaches us that love is not just an emotion; it's a lifelong journey of caring  for one another, forgiving, and seeking reconciliation. Our faith calls us to embrace this love and  extend it to those around us, regardless of differences or past grievances.  
 In recent times it is impossible for t children to take care of their parents. This might result in  depression. Elder people need an assistance with their personal needs. The concept of old age  homes was started as a solution to the problems of the elderly population. Now the conventional  elderly care is transferred to the organizations. Nowadays it is a reality that old age homes are  an unavoidable part of our social Life. We must remember that whatever we do for our aged  parents, it should be out of divine Love.  
2: Living as Witnesses of God's Love (1 John 4:21)  
In 1 John 4:21, we are reminded that whoever loves God must also love his brother. As we age,  we become living witnesses of God's enduring love. Our experiences have shown us that God's  love is unwavering and ever-present. In our old age, we are called to exemplify this love  through our actions and interactions. Let us be a shining example of God's love to our families,  friends, and the world. 
Old age is a time when we draw upon the reservoir of experience that we have accumulated  throughout our lives. It is a time to reflect on the lessons we have learned, the trials we have  faced, and the blessings we have received. In the book of Job, we are reminded, "Is not wisdom  found among the aged? Does not long-life bring understanding?" (Job 12:12, NIV). Indeed, old  age often brings a deep well of understanding and wisdom, honed through the experiences of a  lifetime.  
Point 3: Sharing the Treasure of Wisdom (Proverbs 16:31)  
Although not from 1 John, Proverbs 16:31 reminds us that gray hair is a crown of glory, gained  in a righteous life. Old age brings with it a treasure trove of wisdom and life experiences. We  must recognize that this wisdom is a gift from God and a valuable resource for guiding the  younger generation. Let us not only share our stories but also impart the spiritual lessons we've  learned through the years, enriching the faith of those who follow us.  
As we age, we may encounter physical limitations and health challenges. Yet, it is in these  moments that our faith can shine brightest. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Therefore we do not lose  heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day"  (2 Corinthians 4:16, NIV). Our faith allows us to find renewal and strength even when our  bodies weaken.  
In our later years, we have the opportunity to be a source of inspiration and guidance for  younger generations. Our stories, our faith, and our wisdom can serve as a beacon of hope and  a testament to the enduring power of faith.  
In conclusion, old age is a stage in life where our faith and experience converge. It's a time to  deepen our love for God and others, serve as witnesses of God's enduring love, and share the  wisdom gained over the years. Through these actions, we can continue to fulfill God's purpose  for us, even in our later years.  
 

Prayer
Holy Spirit, fill me with greater and greater love for our brothers and sisters. Help me put aside  any hatred I have towards anyone. Let our hearts be filled with the holy spirit and let us be able  to love and care for the elderly out of divine love. Help us walk in your footsteps. In Jesus we  trust, Amen. 

Thought for the Day
: How we can grow old gracefully and leave a meaningful legacy  for the next generations.

Nissy Cherian
The Mar Thoma Church Staten Island, New York

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