“O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation. Your power to all those who come.” Psalm 71:17-18
June 30, 2025
Generations come and go like the rising and setting of the sun. The psalmist longs for finishing grace as his gray hairs witness to what is most important in life’s brief story. Old age brings problems. We could call them enemies (71:10), the continuation of troubles. Evil doesn’t respect older people. Failing strength exacerbates the struggles of life (71:9). There is the unwelcome guest of being alone with no one to help (71:11). Old age is best experienced when there has been proper preparation, walking with God (71:3), having learned that God is faithful. There is much to be done to help the younger generation to know who God is and His wonderful sufficiency. Old age is not for sitting, being lost in memories, and languishing in the what-ifs. Am I sowing the seeds of despondency for a wasted life or am I making it possible to finish my course with joy?
H
“Lord, it belongs not to my care
Whether I die or live;
To love and serve thee is my share,
And this Thy grace must give.
If life be long, I will be glad
That I may long obey;
If short, yet why should I be sad
To soar to endless day?
Richard Baxter, “As Christ Chooses”