Waiting With Joy: An Advent Activity CalendarSample

December 6 — Listen To The Elderly

Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel. (v. 25)

Anna and Simeon were old. They were past the age of working, managing a household, or taking care of children. Instead, each in their own way, they devoted themselves to God, testifying to others of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

At times, it can be hard for older people to see their value when they can’t do what they used to. There is another, better way to think about old age. Psalm 92 was written long ago, but it describes people you and I know today: “The righteous flourish like the palm tree . . . They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green” (vv. 12-14). Still bearing fruit in old age. Still fresh and green—that’s how I want to be. In old age we may have to live differently, but we don’t have to live less.

We may admire the enthusiasm of youth, which bubbles over like champagne. But from the elderly we can gain deep wisdom that has been aged in casks of experience. There were a lot of eyes in the temple that day, but only old eyes—Anna and Simeon’s eyes—saw the holy child for who he was.

Today’s Activity: If you are younger, spend time with an older person. Send a note, make a call, or plan a visit. Ask questions and listen to the answers. If you are older, reflect on how you have seen God’s faithfulness over your life and share your testimony with a younger person.