The dictionary defines the word “ode” as a poem expressing a particular feeling with dignity. I wanted to write an ode for all my fellow senior citizens, because I feel their struggles and pain. But it’s hard to write about the aging process in a dignified manner when the retrieve key on our memory computer refuses to cooperate, or when both of our sewer pipes leak, our taste and smell have died and gone to their long home, or when we stagger like someone who has had one too many drinks, or our hands and feet have turned to ice.
But let me tell you what I do have that inspires me to write my ode. It is God’s Word written especially for the aged to encourage and give us direction for a wonderful and productive time during our last years on this earth. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
First there’s the promise of safety. “Even to your old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.” Isaiah 46:4. Then there’s the promise of productivity if we stay faithful to Him. “Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age. They shall be fresh and flourishing.” Psalm 92:13-14. We often do all we can to hide our gray hair, but God’s Word says, “And the splendor of old men (and women) is their gray head.” Proverbs 20:29b. That’s cause for us to walk tall!
Finally there’s David’s prayer for purpose. “Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.” Psalm 71:18.
It just can’t get any more dignified than this, Lord. Thank You! Amen
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