“So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12 (NASB)

Getting older is a strange journey. I had a birthday Saturday and was recalling thoughts of when I was young, when I was counting the years until I could drive, graduate, get married and retire. Then, one day, I look in the mirror and wonder where all those years went.

America is aging. According to recent census data, more than 58 million Americans are age 65 or older, and that number continues to increase. With aging come both thrills and complications. There is the joy of grandchildren (boy are they), increased wisdom, treasured memories and looking back at God’s faithfulness through the decades. But there are also aching joints, doctor’s appointments, medications and the painful reality that our bodies do not work the way they once did and oh yeah, the grouchy old man syndrome sets in. 

The great old comedian George Burns used to say, “You know you’re getting old when you stoop to tie your shoelaces and wonder what else you could do while you’re down there.” 

Most of us can relate to that! Age has a way of reminding us that this world is not our permanent home.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Though our outer person is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16.

While our bodies may weaken, God is still at work strengthening our faith, shaping our character, and preparing us for eternity.

For the believer, every birthday is more than a reminder that life is passing — it is a reminder that heaven is getting closer. Every gray hair, every wrinkle, every slower step means we are one day nearer to seeing Jesus face-to-face. What a glorious thought! 

The world fears aging because it sees only an ending. Christians can embrace aging because we know it is leading us toward a beginning.

Every day lived for Christ is another day toward our eternal home.

So, whether you are young or old today, thank God for the days He has given you. Use them wisely and walk faithfully, love deeply, and remember: if Jesus is your Savior, the best days are not behind you — they are all ahead of you. 

Call on Him today! 

Scott Mitchell is the pastor at Solid Rock Baptist Church, located at 13704 Farm Road 1040 in Exeter. He may be reached at 417-846-6619.