Reelin' in the years

Turning fifty these days is not the celebrated milestone it used to be. In a society that endlessly debates the politically-charged issues of homelessness and healthcare for the elderly, yet culturally reveres youth and seemingly encourages and rewards unbridled exuberance, the forgotten folk found floating through the middle ages (Job 32:9) are often left wondering – hey, what about us? Where do we fit in? Even if fifty has become the new thirty, it’s never too late to consider one’s role in the Master Plan and realize that every contribution, no matter how great or small, makes a difference. We know that age is truly but a number and attitude is key when it comes to transitioning our energies from a fondness for worldly success to something of substantial significance. God guides the willing (Psalm 138:8), giving them everything they need to accomplish the task He has selected for them. Moses, after all, did his best work after reaching the ripe age of 80 (Isaiah 46:4). We deny ourselves many blessings by simply sitting on the sidelines, so don’t think that middle age is a half-full/half-empty proposition. By suiting up and getting involved, you’ll find fifty can be the beginning of an exhilarating life in Jesus Christ. Happy birthday, Sis – I love you!

True colors

Every generation has sought to carve out its own identity, to distinguish and define itself within the context of its times. For example, the greatest generation (those born between 1916 to the mid-1920s) fought World War II. The silent generation followed (1925-1945) and begat the baby boom generation (1945-1964), which gave us generation X (1965-1981). The “Me” generation, those born in the 70s and 80s, was known largely for its focus on self, believing that the needs of individuals were more important than the needs of others (Proverbs 11:25). Over time, it’s not hard to see the distancing and separation of man from the principles found in the Bible. Whereas commandments to focus on serving others (1 Corinthians 10:24) abound, mantras such as “Be yourself” and “Believe in yourself” run counter to Christian teaching. The situation may not be improving, as we continue to witness a growing emphasis on all things “i” (i.e. iPod, iTunes, iPhone, iPad and iMac), reflecting the cultural shifts of a modern, global society. People may say, “you can’t have it all,” but it hasn’t stopped them from trying to have it all. The material “all” is far less important, however, than the true “all” – having God, the Savior, as the spiritual center of your life (James 4:8). Can the “Me” generation become the “He” generation? It can, if you’re not afraid to be your true self, the self He created, and show your true colors – they are beautiful.