You got me when I was an unformed youth, God, and taught me everything I know. Now I’m telling the world your wonders; I’ll keep at it until I’m old and gray. Psalm 71:18 (The Message)
Unless it is my birthday, I don’t wake up in the morning and think about my age. Most days, once I’ve stretched out stiff joints and had a cup of coffee, I feel energetic, enthusiastic, and young. When I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and really look at myself, I see wrinkles, gray hair and an image of my mom staring back at me. Then I get on with the day once again.
This past Sunday, Rod and I attended our 50th high school class reunion. When I arrived at the venue, an old hen house converted into a lovely gathering space with wide windows looking out on corn fields. Aside from the mountains, it looked very much like Shenandoah County.
As I approached, I noticed all these older people mingling around. I briefly thought that I was at the wrong place. Then it hit me. These were my classmates! The kids I’d spent years in the classrooms, the band and choir room, the gym, the playing fields, on dates and hanging out at burger joints were now balding, greying, wearing reading glasses and hearing aids. And we were the fortunate ones.
Some of my classmates surprised me with testimonies about God’s faithfulness. Friends who seemed intent on getting into trouble in high school were now talking to me about God. Their lives hadn’t been easy, but they had found meaning and solace amid the challenges. In their quiet ways, they were following in the Psalmist’s footsteps, telling the world God’s wonders.
I am going to embrace today with gratitude and find ways to share the love and grace of God with others.
Keep at it ~ Anne
Wayfinding 