You have taught me ever since I was young, and I still tell you of your wonderful acts. Now that I am old and my hair is gray, do not abandon me, O God! Be with me while I proclaim your power and might to all generations to come.

Your righteousness, God, reaches the skies. You have done great things; there is no one like you. You have sent troubles and suffering on me, but you will restore my strength; you will keep me from the grave. You will make me greater than ever; you will comfort me again.

Psalm 71:17-21

We can serve as mentors, teaching wisdom and virtue. Seniors can point to the ancient paths of holy living and encourage young believers to walk in them. There is power in the example of an ordinary life lived with an awareness of God's presence - seeing Him in everything and doing all things for Him. This is the mark of the mature soul, quietly and humbly going about ordinary tasks, living in joy, and leaving behind the fragrance of Jesus' love.

Even if our journey leads to illness or weakness, and we are confined to our homes and then to our beds, our years of fruitful service need not be over. We can still pray. Prayer is one of the special privileges of infirmity, and in the end may be its greatest benefit.

Above all else, we can love. Love remains our last and best gift to God and to others.

Mentoring, being a godly example, praying, and loving. These are the opportunities of growing old with God.

We never retire from being useful to God.

Our Daily Bread - June 8, 2002