When I was younger I thought that I would die in my fifties. This idea was not just morbid or negative thinking. Both my father and his father died at 50 years old. So I thought that this was also my destiny.
I am now 71 years old. What made the difference in my longevity over my ancestors? Well, the natural answer is that I had a somewhat healthier lifestyle. They both drank alcohol and smoked cigarettes heavily. My father died of his third heart attack. I don’t drink or smoke.
However I think that there is something more at play here. I believe that the blessings of God that have kept me alive. Now don’t get me wrong. I don’t think that I am somehow better than others, including my father, and, therefore more deserving of long life. I just believe that God is God and He chooses to do what fulfills His purposes. And He has chosen to give me a longer life. It is a matter of His grace toward me.
So in my younger days I was not sure that I would see grandchildren. Now I have six grandkids and really enjoy each one, all with different gifts and personalities. What a wonderful season of life! Proverbs 17:6 says, “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of their fathers.” I couldn’t agree more. I have six glorious crowns and am very grateful to my heavenly Father.
Reluctant Retiree 