Solomon wrote, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). The wise man’s words in no way detract from the faith of seniors. He was writing specifically to the young man (11:9).
Neither do Solomon’s words convey the idea that there is no contribution for seniors to make, no joy in life whatsoever, no reason to exist anymore. He was speaking plainly about the difficulties of old age. Seniors get it. Sickness, weakness, the loss of loved ones - even a spouse, a decrease in energy, sight and hearing, deteriorating bones and teeth - all make for a more difficult and possibly a less productive life.
As death approaches, the worldly pursuits of one’s life sharply come into focus: wasted efforts, wasted time and the wrong priorities. The church is more important. Now the spiritual welfare of the family is important. Eternity is no longer a distant thought. This realization is wonderful, but it’s too late to go back and do it over again. It’s too late to give God the years of your youth. God has always required the best, the first fruits of our labors. We are to present our “bodies a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Not only after years of sinful living and with bodies that are half or less than what they once were, but in our youth.
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). What is life all about? What should the days of our youth be all about? “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:14). – From, The Harvester (April 28, 2024).
NOTE: Most congregations these days are composed of a large number of older people. Mabelvale is no exception to that rule. Lately, however, I am impressed with the growing number of young families and small children that bless the Mabelvale church. Let’s praise God for the cries and precious intensity of these little ones! I cannot help but want to pray for our young families. Mom, dad and kids is the very thing our culture decries and condemns. Our world is wounded by the perversion of the home and family. As a countermeasure for good our young families are the progression of what God created and pronounced as “good” (Gen. 1:31). We see the “gray heads,” and now we can’t help but see the precious little ones that are so full of energy and enthusiasm to learn and be together. Thank you, Lord! – Dennis Gulledge