You are to rise
in the presence of the elderly and honor the old. Fear your God; I am the
LORD”… Leviticus. 19:32 HCSB
Yesterday and today’s devotionals are focusing on senior
adults since this Sunday is Senior Adult Sunday at North Side.
We need what these
generations know about life, relationships, values and the true purpose of
life. A quick look at the
characteristics of most senior adults quickly reveals the strength, integrity
and faith of these generations.
Characteristics of Our Elders
·
Gratitude for Benefits
·
Sense of Social Responsibility
·
Low Sense of Entitlement
·
Patriotic
·
Spiritual
·
Family Centered
·
Respectful of Authority
I am ashamed to say
that too many adults today don’t always show those characteristics. The generations that went before us had a
different set of values – a more selfless existence. We can learn a level of respect from senior
adults that is foreign to us.
This respect to ancient persons is due them
from younger persons…
·
Because
of their having been in the world before them, and of their long continuance in
it.
·
Because
of the favor and honor God has bestowed upon them in granting them long life.
·
Because
of the experience, knowledge, and wisdom they may be supposed to have attained
unto.
When you stop and
really think about it, they have so much to offer. I remember listening to my grandmother tell
stories of her youth. I wish she had
told more stories and I wish I would have listened because now she is gone and
I only have the memories I have stored in my head. Memories can fade over time but the impact
she had on my life and the lessons she taught me will live on forever. Have your parents or grandparents record
their voice telling of life experiences.
Having their voice on a recording will be very valuable to you and your
family one day. Family history has a
marked impact on every one of us. Family stories are powerful instruments of
passing on values, identity and faith.
Don’t discount the
“wise” people God has placed in your life.
Listen to their advice. Their
life experiences are rich with wisdom and knowledge. Many times, God places them in your life for a
reason. They have “been there and done
that,” and that makes them experts!
If you’re in the
golden years of life, you have more to give. You have a legacy to leave your family and
others. A family legacy is the overriding impact, influence and/or materials
passed down to the next generation from the actions or resources of the
generation(s) before. As we grow
older, our responsibilities grow with us. What is the most important treasure you desire
to leave others?
If we take the God
events in our lives for granted and don’t choose to pass them down, our
children will lose the blessing of seeing the hand of God through our stories. Will your children and grandchildren speak of
the faithful service and sacrifice of resource you have made for the continuing
witnesses of your church? You are now
building your legacy. Don’t quit too
early. Carry on with passion and purpose
all the way to the end.
Scripture to Claim:
“They will still
bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” Psalm 92:14:
