AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
Kimberly Lawrence
Today's Scripture: “Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, ‘Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?’” Genesis 17:17, ESV
Theme: Tell me lies like: “I am too old.”
TOO OLD?
This month, I will celebrate a milestone birthday. You know, the one that forces people to ask, “So, how do you feel about turning 50?” By the nature of the question, I’ve gathered that I’m supposed to feel some kind of way about it. Honestly, up until I was asked (several times), I hadn’t given it much thought at all. Perhaps it’s not the question, but the way it’s presented, that implies this should be difficult; that something good has passed and whatever is ahead won’t compare favorably.
I’m drawn to the story of Sarah in the Bible, not only for the historical significance of her contribution, but for the way God used her. Sarah was considered “well advanced in years” and certainly past the age of childbearing. As she was eavesdropping on God’s messengers, who told Abraham she would have a son, she “laughed to herself as she thought, ‘After I am worn out and my master [4] is old, will I now have this pleasure?’” (Genesis 18:12b, NIV).
NOT TOO OLD!
“Worn out.” Sarah was 90 years old. I suspect she had a few wrinkles, aches, and pains. How could she possibly be used for great things at such an age? She must not have believed it, either, because she literally laughed at the thought! Fast forward a year and Sarah gave birth to a son, Isaac, becoming the mother whose lineage would eventually create the twelve tribes of Israel, and an ancestor of Jesus Himself. God was unconcerned with her numerical age. He delivered on His promise and in His perfect timing.
USE WHAT YOU HAVE AND KNOW
My father-in-law is in his early 80’s. He, too, has a few wrinkles and walks a little slower, but God is still using his time and talents in a great way. You see, he’s been serving at the Statesville campus for almost ten years. He’s not on stage, preaching, singing, or playing an instrument. There is no spotlight on him. What you may not know, though, is that he’s had a hand in building many of the things we enjoy around all our church campuses: sets for “Movies at The Cove,” Christmas sleighs in our lobbies, a new coffee shop, or Kids at The Cove area. He does it all! He serves—behind the scenes—so that each of us can come to church, bring our children, invite our friends, and experience worship together. He didn’t start serving until he was well into retirement, “advanced in years,” but his lifetime of experience is now being used by God and for others.
Make It Personal: As I approach my own milestone, it’s an opportunity for reflection and I now ask the same of you. Are you allowing God to use your experience, wisdom, and time? What has your life experiences made you good at? Age is a number. “I’m too old” is an excuse. There is a purpose and a plan for each day that we have on this earth and it’s never too late for God to use you!
Prayer: God, thank You for the experiences in my life. They have given me unique wisdom and made me into who I am. Use me in Your service. I want to discover my talents and take the next step of offering them to others. Help me lament less about what has passed and seek what You have ahead for me. Amen.
Read: 2 Corinthians 4:16-17; Psalm 71:18-21; Job 12:12; James 3:15-18
Weekly Memory Verse: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8, ESV