Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

Proverbs 30:5

The thin, gray-haired man who stepped gingerly off the treadmill was a mere shadow of my former gym buddy. Six years ago, Bob was a tall, vigorous runner, with treadmill times that put me to shame. Today he cautioned, “Getting older is harder than expected.” That’s not the message I wanted to hear. After all, advertisements show older adults whacking the pickle ball and non-profits highlight 80-year-old volunteers. Yet somehow, between Bob’s observation and glossy ads, I need to find my place. Friends offer suggestions; family members give support, but human nature can disappoint. The same Creator who designed our birth “Before I formed you in the womb” (Jeremiah 1:5) still has a plan for us. Each of us is called to “proclaim your might to another generation.” Only then will we find joy in aging.

Mary Manz Simon
Ft. Myers, FL

Dear Father, sprinkle my days with joy while I follow the path You determine for me. Amen.

Reflect: How many moments of joy can you count today?

Read: Psalm 139 and Luke 2:36-38