By Tina Y. Gerber - McCurley In life, we are to bring order to chaos because we are made in the image of God. Sometimes, in the underlining fabric of our lives, we experience layers and years of chaos.
This is part of the human experience; as my husband and I can attest to fighting a flawed government system or facing tragedy when it strikes. Still, what does this mean, bringing order to chaos?
Chaos is unexplored territory, the unknown, and that which has no clear order; and, let's face it, we all prefer stability and structure, even if it brings some moments of boredom or predictability. Ironically, it is sometimes easier to pretend a problem or chaos doesn't exist and remain in what feels like an indeterminately safe place. However, we should really be thoroughly anchored in Christ and have healthy boundaries. Personally, I find stability and structure in the Bible comforting and supportive, especially with the uncertainty of this world.
I believe faith is an integral part of this journey to push yourself to the limit of your ability and challenge yourself. This living challenge includes everything we say, do and feel; leaving God out of this process doesn't make sense to me. The best self-care is, if we let go and cling to God.
I have avoided dealing with my age for years, yet age is not really paramount a factor. I am set to have my 65th birthday next month, and while some readers refer to me as a baby, I am excited and blessed to celebrate this with my family. As a senior, I finally understand, and, I can shift my focus from the fear of aging and chaos to the rich, full life God has called me to. The Bible has several verses which talk about God's relationships with seniors. If we listen, we will all hear God talk about grace, not fear and resistance!
I saw a friend I hadn't seen in years, and I told her she looked great and the years had been kind to her. She just about bit my head off, stating, she earned the wrinkles and gray hair! Actually, I was speaking of her inner beauty, not just her physical beauty.
Aging, for many, is seen as a loss of control and complete chaos; we forget things and need more physical and sometimes mental help. The human body was not intended to live forever. We can honour God by creating habits which bring us health and strength while following His Word.
The media leads us to believe, youth have more value; the truth is, God treasures us at every age. God gives us specific gifts in every season of our lives. As the older generation prays for our youth, perhaps, the younger generations will come to understand they are loved and cared about. Seniors can and do make a difference in their lives. Prayer is an important aspect, but it is also essential for older people to be intentional about growing, loving and personal relationships, beyond the experience with grandchildren.
Aging does have an upside. Christians are rewarded with a kind of spiritual adulthood youth do not have. While I can no longer get down on the floor with my grandchildren, we can still snuggle on the couch and read books together, after I find my glasses. I am no longer expected to run, cook, or wash the dishes at family gatherings any longer; plus I can eat my dessert before supper.
The Lord promises those who believe in Him, His love and care. The Lord says, in Isaiah 46:4, "and I will still be carrying you when you are old. Your hair will turn gray, and I will still carry you. I made you, and I will carry you to safety." ERV. Life doesn't have to be bleak just because you're growing old. For those who walk with God, it takes us nearer to heaven, which is a comforting thought.