3/15- Declaring God’s Glory with Supporting the Elderly- Psalm 71:9, 18

3/15- Declaring God’s Glory with Supporting the elderly- Psalm 71:9, 18

Do not cast me away when I am old;
    do not forsake me when my strength is gone.
Even when I am old and gray,
    do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
    your mighty acts to all who are to come.

(Psalm 71:9,18)

 Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Tim. 5:8)

Thoughts: In some cultures the old are purposefully and literally left out in the cold to die.  For Christians life is sacred and each soul is valuable- whether very young or very old.  Again, many churches form retirement communities where family can make sure their loved ones are cared for.  It is not fair that those who changed the diapers of the young (when they were helpless) are neglected when they are old.  One of the answers to the prayers above is for Christians to care for those who are older.  In 1 Timothy 5 in the New Testament, it is clear that families are encouraged to care for their elderly- especially widows.  But it is also clear when families cannot (and we may add when resources are depleted  the churches have a role to play in caring for the elderly.  In our state the Lutherans, Presbyterians, Episcopalians have homes for the elderly. So on Mother's Day Presbyterian churches will take an offering for the Presbyterian Home folk who cannot pay their way.  

Prayer: Lord, never forsake us.  Give us grace to not forsake your church nor have your church forsake us.