Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Psalm 119:49-72
Isaiah 9:8-17
2 Peter 2:1-10
Mark 1: 1-8


Today John the Baptist speaks to us, telling us of the coming of the Messiah and how he is just a harbinger of this joyous news. It brings to mind the people in my life who have shone a light before me, bringing joy to my path, hope for both the present and the future – Elders. Not just First Nations Elders, though I have been blessed by some, but any older person who has aged gracefully, joyously, and in faith – certainly not “grumpy old men”(or women).

These “Elders” have shown me what is possible both now and in the future. They have shared wisdom, faith and joy gleaned over a lifetime despite, or perhaps because, of suffering. They have never given up hope and thus shine the light of Christ in the world, and to me. I look to their example as I age. Certainly, our society shows no respect for this stage of our lives, pushing youthfulness at the expense of wisdom, not realizing the deeper joy that can come with age.

At Christmas we celebrate Christ as a child, but I see Christ in the eyes and hearts and faces of our “Elders” who are so much more than elderly. May we all be a joy to the young in our old age, bringing hope and preparing the way.

– Nancy Scott