God's Glory Church

“She… spoke about Him to everyone who was waiting for the liberation of Jerusalem.” — Luke 2:38

On a busy day before Christmas, an elderly woman walked into the post office. Watching her slow walk, a patient post office worker greeted the woman: “Greetings, young lady!” His words sounded friendly, but some may have heard in them a hint that it would be better if she were younger.

The Bible shows that the elderly can revive our hope. When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple to dedicate Him to the Lord (Lk. 2:23; see Ex. 13:2, 12), two elderly believers suddenly became the center of attention.

At first, Semyon, who had been waiting for years for the moment when he would be able to see the Messiah, “took [Jesus] in his arms, gave praise to God and said: “Now, Lord, you are letting your servant go in peace according to your word, because my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all nations” (Lk. 2:28-31).

And then they were joined by Anna, a prophetess who “lived to a very old age” (v. 36). The widow, who lived in marriage for only seven years, never left the temple until the age of eighty-four, “serving God day and night with fasting and prayers.” Seeing Jesus, Anna began to praise God and speak “about Him to all who were waiting for the liberation of Jerusalem” (vv. 37-38).

These two optimistic ministers call us always and at any age to rely on God, putting great hopes on Him.

What have you learned from older people about God’s faithfulness? How does their hope inspire you?

Dear Father, if we lose hope, remind us of the need to trust in You.

Author: Patricia Raybon