A couple of years ago, I attended a banquet for “Senior Citizens” at church. My knees and hips let me know that for sure at times. The banquet was well planned, food and entertainment were great and my wife and I did enjoy the conversation at our table. As I looked around at the people who came to this event, I noticed there was a lot of gray hair in that room, including mine.
Proverbs 20:29 says, “The glory of young men is their strength, but the splendor of old men is their gray hair.” I am certainly not physically strong anymore, but I am certainly gray. Job 12:12 says “Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” It’s a given fact you cannot live long and not learn; if you don’t learn then you will not live long.
Isaiah 46:4 says, “Even when you are old, I will be the same. Even when your hair has turned gray, I will take care of you. I made you and will take care of you. I will carry you and save you.”
Getting old is not for sissies, but God promises to take care of us, carry and save us into our old age. Getting old does have its rewards, and rewards are meant to be shared. Second Corinthians 4:16 “Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” For what are we renewed daily? You are renewed daily to share that which our Lord has taught you while earning those gray hairs, your reward.
Some of you are as old or older than I am; others are mere pups. Guys, it’s our obligation to God to mentor the younger generation. We are not as strong as we once were, but we have experience and God-given knowledge that God expects us to share. Our bodies may not allow us to go to children’s camp, or handle a lock-in with the young people anymore, but we can provide support and aid to those that do. We can share Biblical insight and encouragement to those who are able. Now, I am not saying quit doing it if you are able – yes, for as long as you can lead and serve. I can find nowhere in God’s word that says we can retire from His work. Our way of serving our Lord may be a little different once we receive the reward of gray hair … getting old. We can still Serve The Lord With Gladness.
