Old Age and Gray Hair

So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to all generations to come. Psalm 71:18 NRSV

This psalm is in two parts. The first is a plea to God. In this petition, the one who prays asks God not to leave them even when they become old. Even when I'm old, wrinkled and feeble, don't forget me, God!

The second part of this psalm qualifies the first part. Don't forsake me, God, until I have told all the succeeding children, grandchildren, etc. about you.

At first this may seem like there will come a time when God will leave that person: just as soon as they've evangelized all the young people. However, when can any person say that they have told everyone in the succeeding generation about God? Is there an end to evangelism? Can one put a cut-off on telling about God's might? The answer to all three is: no. There can be no end to telling of the wonders and might of God.

So, because we cannot stop telling about God, God will not forsake us.

Thank you God, that you will never leave us, even to old age and gray hairs. May we understand our responsibility to tell all succeeding generations about your might. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims