Aging with Grace For those of us entering our senior years, our map for the future is unknown. What will we do in retirement? Will we have enough money? Where will we live? What will our spiritual journey look like? It’s normal to be afraid of the unknown. In response to these fears, the Spirit of God whispers “Do not be afraid, I am with you. Just be still and listen for my love and mercy.” As I think on this invitation, there are at least three things to remember:
·Become more and more aware of God’s “unfolding grace.”Even though it may seem things are falling apart on the outside, God can help us focus our attention on what is most life-giving to us and most loving in our relationships with others.
·Learn to be still. As we face the potential loss of our energy, careers, and familiar roles, God invites us to be still “and know that I am God.” We may hold more loosely the things that used to be so important to us.
·Pay attention to the Holy Spirit. As we journey into old age, the future may look scary and empty. But, God is creating something new and the Holy Spirit is hovering over the darkness. The above suggestions can keep us going as we navigate the difficult, unknown terrain of aging.