Leviticus 19:32 "Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the LORD.
Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life
We’ve read about the four boys bullying an elderly woman who was their school bus monitor. The boys have been suspended a year from the school district. They also have to do 50 hours of community service with elderly.
We, in Western culture, do not honor our elderly for the wisdom and life experience they have acquired.
Creation teaches us that age demands dignity and honor. The older the redwoods, the more majestic. Shouldn’t it be true that the older a man, the more he is to be appreciated by others. Young people are missing a great opportunity when they do not get to know the elderly and associate with them.
Consider four things:
First, age does not mean someone is useless. There are groups of retired men and women who travel the US to build churches. Sounds useful to me. You might be surprised by their wit, humor, and their ability to guide you.
Secondly, allow them to share their life with you. I miss the days of visiting with the only grandfather I knew. He was a limitless fount of wisdom and stories. He retired from Esso in Baton Rouge at 60 and then served as a court bailiff until 80! He once pulled his gun on a prisoner trying to escape. When my grandpa called a warning, the prisoner asked “Are you gonna shoot?” My grandpa said he did not want to, but his hand twitched and he could not make a guarantee. The prisoner gave up!
Thirdly, age carries with it a promise. That when we are old we will receive the respect, dignity and honor that is due us. That someone will care and want to return the love and care that was given so long ago to others. It is the Golden Rule in effect.
Fourthly, remember - growing old is not a disease or a woe to humanity. It is a blessing bestowed by God. Honor the elderly and honor God.
No comments:
Post a Comment