SENIOR SAINTS JUST KEEP MARCHING ALONG

by CharlesRobey
(Trussville, AL USA)

"Now also when I am old and grey headed, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to everyone that is to come." (Psalms 71:18)

What does it mean to be a "Senior Saint" ? And at what age does one experience the humanistic metamorphic change from being young to turning old ? In times past, one would not qualify for the preverbal "senior citizen" discount, until reaching the age of sixty-five. Now days, being fifty qualifies for this discount, in most stores.

Yes, in today's world, it seems that if you are in your 40s, 50s, or God forbid beyond that age, you are suddenly placed on the shelf of the church library. What a waste of experience or talent (Job 12:12).

If God's principles have not changed (Psalm 71:9), why the secular demographics change ? Simply put, it's a matter of cultural change. In other words, it's just another of Satan's big lies, to avert mankind away from the gospel. The dominion of darkness, Satan, has made it his mission to continue to destroy souls. He has conspired to control all aspects of our lives, including the elderly (Ephesians 6:11-12). However, Satan can be resisted (James 4:7), as he has his limitations (Job 4:7). That's where we "senior saints" come on the scene, in our Christian witness. Where we just keep "marching along".

Nonetheless, from the Christian witnessing perspective, seniors will always have an advantage in their witness of the gospel (1 Kings 3:14) . Although I may be a bit prejudice, on the subject, for simply being one of them. God's word is specific in this direction (Deuteronomy 5:33) .

I realize that today's younger generation is very impressive, and I applaud their accomplishments. And with all the attention being given the younger church leadership, it seems as if us seniors should just craw up in that preverbal " Hallelujah " fox hole. However, there is no substitute for experience (Isaiah 40:29)..

So, here's my reasoning, for the "senior saints" to keep marching on with the good news of the gospel.

The Personal Network- Seniors will always have a much broader base of friends and family. Thus, more chances to witness to others.

The Community Service- Seniors are more community minded. This puts them at the forefront of "where it's all happening" . Where they are more apt to meet others, out in public.

The Influential Contacts- Because of being around a bit longer, seniors just know more people, who had rather trust the older generation.

The Better Work Observation- Seniors have the benefit of watching others from afar. And they know which conversation or approach works best.

The Added Experience- The bumps and bruises are over, or should be. So, those who have been around the block more than once will make better decisions in approaching others.

And Taking The Last Shot- Seniors know their time here is limited, so they must be about their "Father's " business.

Remember ! As seniors, our outlook on aging will influence how we feel about ourselves, as well as how we feel about others. As seniors, age is beautiful (Proverbs 20:29). As Seniors, age is good (Job 5:26. And as seniors, age should not be discouraging (Ecc 11:10).

So, get out there "senior saint". Pray to God (Luke 15:16), and talk to folks (1 Cor 12:21). For this old world is full of hurting people (Psalm 142:4), people who are lonely (Psalm 25:16), people in need the wisdom and knowledge of us seniors (Psalm 69:20).

Author's Post Script
Although medical science has succeeded in prolonging the average life expectancy of Americans, it has been confronted with the challenge of compromise because of ethics. In the older Americans, issues once viewed as black and white, life and death, right and wrong, are no longer popular by our aggressive society. Now, euthanasia has boldly been thrust into the foray of social debate. In other words, murder has been relabeled as "mercy-killing", contrary to the scriptures. This new social trend is contrary to God's Word, with respect to the sanctity of life (Job 32:7).