THANKFUL

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Lord, I find it hard to believe I’ve walked this planet over seven-and-a-half decades. The ancient sage of Ecclesiastes knew the brevity of life, and like him, I wonder where the years went. The psalmist also considered how quickly life fades and the importance of dedicating our lives to serving you.

Was the psalmist humming a happy tune while writing Psalm 103 about the benefits of serving you? Did he break out a big ole ear-to-ear grin when he penned verse five? “He fills my life with good things.  My youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (NLT)

As he aged, the psalmist found serving you and living by your precepts kept him healthy in body, soul, and spirit. He never lost his young-at-heart attitude. Even though the years slipped by at increased frequency, life still held meaning and purpose. Each day began a new adventure. When sickness and disease attacked his body, he still came out on top. Disease may have taken his body, but it never defeated his spirit. Your grace sustained him to the end.

In an earlier manuscript, the psalmist upheld the opinion that age is only a number. No need for AARP or AMAC to remain relevant. Writing from a thankful heart, he emphasized how you, still used him to influence the younger generation and encourage people to remain faithful to faith to you. He may have even been giddy when he wrote: “Even in old age they still produce fruit. They will remain vital and green.”—Psalm 92:14 (NLT)

For the believer, there is no such thing as retirement. Lord, may we be used to further your kingdom here until we take our first breath of the pure air of Heaven with you. Amen, Jesus.