My topic for discussion this week has been aging. Not because I’m particularly fond of the subject. It seems there’s a whole lot of people in my age group. I recently heard that the fastest growing group in America today is 100 years or more of age. I can’t imagine living another 20 some years, but it looks like I might. There’s a Book in the Bible that refers to the aging process among other things.

Proverbs 14:30 ESV – “A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.

Most of us are not crazy about the things that go along with aging – like loss of body mass – hearing, senses of smell taste or touch or sight – skin that has lost its elasticity – hair falling out – teeth being replaced. I could go on, but I prefer to look at every part of life with hope and this whole thing is starting to depress me. When we worry about all that stuff, we soon become cranky, tired, complaining or we may even give up. There comes a point when we even wonder why we’re hanging around so long. Trust me on this, there is a reason. God has already determined what will happen as we go through this life. He knows the mistakes we’ll make or have made. He knows our shortcomings and our strengths. He uses all of those things to give our lives purpose. Thinking about our ailments isn’t going to make them better. There are medical advances which far surpass what was going a hundred years ago, so life can be lengthened. But there is still no cure for death.

How we approach that day can only be determined by the One who created life in the first place. God’s plan is for life after death for those who put their faith in Him and all that He’s done to enrich their lives. He’s also there to answer our prayers. Whatever they may be, He will answer – when He determines it’s the right time.

Our bones, along with everything else about us, are going to decay. They will eventually crush and turn to ash. Sounds promising, eh? Actually, our hearts – our life source – along with our Creator – will determine when our time on earth will end. He has promised new life, restored bodies, no disease, pain or tears.

LORD, I need you every minute of every day. Help me to trust in your perfect plan for my life. If it’s your will that I live a long life, help me to share the news of your mercy and grace. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen!