A Point of Reference

I’ve been thinking about being younger for a long time.

It isn’t working.

Actually, I find myself at an interesting age and stage. Old enough to have had many experiences to draw from. Old enough to recognize that many are younger, smarter, and stronger. Old enough to recognize the shortness of days. And yet, young enough to have something to contribute. Young enough to plan ahead. Young enough to have much hope for the future.

There is much to reflect on. There is even more to look forward to.

From this perspective, looking at the past as well as the future, Psalm 71:15–18 has been on my mind lately. It reads:

My mouth will tell about your righteousness and your salvation all day long, though I cannot sum them up.

I come because of the mighty acts of the Lord God; I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.

God, you have taught me from my youth, and I still proclaim your wondrous works.

Even while I am old and gray, God, do not abandon me, while I proclaim your power to another generation, your strength to all who are to come.

No matter our age, no matter our stage, God has given us much to reflect on and much to look forward to. And, as long as we have breath, we are to spend our days in praise and awe of God.

Reflect, for example, on His character, self-existence, holiness, justice, mercy, grace, perfection, goodness, immensity, and infinitude. These eternal qualities are ever-present. We are also to declare the wonders of what He has done. For example, think of His mighty works in creation, His stepping into His creation in the person of Jesus. Consider His sinless, humble life, His torturous death on the cross, His bursting forth from the tomb, His glorious ascension into heaven, His work to prepare a place for us, and His advocacy for us before the Father.

These reflections are not to stay within our own mind. We are called to share them with the next generation and with all who will listen.

Whether in our youth or old age, we have far more to be thankful for than we will ever be able to express.

Be strengthened in your faith by what He has already accomplished. Be hopeful in what He has promised. Be strengthened because of who He is today.