Half naked golden cypress ringed the lake. Their brilliant red and gold leaves outclassed the green pines. In various stages of undress, twists and turns of the limbs became evident. Years of difficulties showed tangled limbs but all ultimately pointed upward. They reached toward the sun who supplied their strength.
Only one cypress remained green and full refusing to enter the final season of the year. Though the color dulled, the leaves clung stubbornly while attempting to prevent the inevitable.
Our culture relentlessly entices people to try to stay young. An impossible task which can only bring disappointment and discouragement.
Like the colorful cypress trees, age strips away our masks. Exposure shows fears, challenges, hopes, dreams ... No longer do we need to pretend we have it all together and that life is always grand. Christians also raise hands and hearts to the Son who gives us strength. Gnarled, twisted lives are renewed and straightened.
Increasing age doesn’t have to be a time of gloom and despair but can be a season to shine to enrich younger lives.
Proverbs 16: Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.
Proverbs 19: 20-21 Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. (NIV)
Heavenly Father, direct your children in each stage of life. Amen
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