A Few Good Years
Next to her I seem so blasé.
Reference: Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people. (Genesis 25:8 NIV)
Explore: I never used to worry about death too much. I have always admired how dedicated my mother is to her health, in an effort to extend her quality of life. Next to her I seem so blasé.
But a couple of months ago I was chatting to a colleague. He was telling me about his reform from living a fairly careless life when it came to what he put in his body.
I asked him what changed his lifestyle and was taken aback by his response.
His father had died in his 40s and when he looked at how his father had lived, he realised he was heading in the same direction. And so, he totally changed how he lived and what he ate in an effort to combat a similar demise.
His response really hit home for me as I thought about my own family. My father died in his 60s and I couldn’t deny we were very similar.
Was I creating an early deathbed for myself?
This conversation has inspired me to take a leaf out of my mother’s book and start to be more considerate of how I treat my body.
Application: Abraham lived a full life. It wasn’t always easy but at the “good old age” of 175 he passed away.
While I’m quite happy to live half of Abraham’s years, I like to hope my years left here on earth will be good. I’m realistic enough to know they won’t necessarily be carefree, but I’m working at being in a place where I’m well enough for a long time yet so I can help others and add value to the world.
I believe you can bring love and happiness to our world no matter how young or old you may be. I’m just hoping I’ve still got many years ahead to bring my contribution.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for each day You give us breath. May we serve you with every day You give us. Amen.
What contribution do you feel you can bring to your world?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.
1 comment:
Dear Linda, I pray you live to a ripe old age also. I start most of my days with a cup of coffee and your devotionals. They help me set the tone for my day with a focus on faith in God and servanthood. Be assured that you are making a difference in the world, helping to make it a better place. May God continue to bless you and this fine ministry you provide.
In His Peace – Fred (Missouri. USA)