Many years ago, when I was in the Air Force and stationed in California, I had the privilege of visiting my cousins who lived in a near by city. I would at times spend the weekend with them and go to church with them.
It was a congregation of close-knit people who loved and took care of each other. The congregation was a good mixture of young and older generations. I was impressed by one older gentleman who came to every service. He was a widower and had little or no family who were close by. His church family loved him and took care of his needs.
Being up in age his wish was to be in the church pew when the Lord called him home. I am not sure why he wanted to be in church when he died and my cousin had never questioned him for his reasoning.
I can only assume what his reasoning was. He, as many of our elderly members of today, finds solace in the spiritual connection and support from fellow church members. Through this they can strengthen their faith as they enter this stage of their life.
Not only will their faith be strengthened but they will be an influence on the younger members also. Their wisdom is imperative and is one of the most valuable assets a church can have. Proverbs 16:21 tells us, “The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.” LASB
Being a part of the church fellowship allows the older generation emotional support and offers them an opportunity to engage in spiritual activities that can help them feel more at peace with their mortality. They also have opportunities to contribute to ministries, which provides a sense of value. For many it can be a space for reflection on their life.
For me as I enter the later years of my life, my wife, children, extended family plus my church fellowship are extremely valuable assets for me. I must say that I haven’t thought about my life ending when I am in church, which doesn’t mean it won’t happen.
Every one of us knows for sure that one day our life on earth will end. None of us know with certainty when or where this may happen.
Being in the military when I first knew about the older gentleman who attended church with my cousin, I was transferred overseas before this man passed away. I was told though, by my cousin, that he didn’t pass away in church but at another location. His wish, even though admirable, didn’t happen because the Lord had other plans. He did know where he was going to spend eternity, and his life was an inspiration to those around him.
How about you? Do you know where you will spend eternity? Have you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not, I appeal to you that you go to your knees, confess your sins, and ask Jesus to come into your heart. It will be best decision you ever made!
