Seven is the number of completion. What about the number seven, such as in seventy-seven? My upcoming 77th birthday is approaching. Can you believe it? Only three years till I enter my eighth decade.
I remember how my grandmother kept her age a secret until she turned eighty. It was then when her age became an honor. Of course, the congratulations she received usually included some flattering comments about how unbelievable her advanced age was to the commentor.
I don’t expect such flattery, but I do want to appreciate the years God has given me. It does make me consider what possible purpose he has for me at this stage of life.
Actually, in Biblical terms, eighty is not too advanced an age for God to begin to use his followers for some pretty significant assignments. Moses was called back from his humble position as shepherd in the dessert in his 80’s. His assignment was for the big job of freeing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
Abraham didn’t start his promised family until past age 100. Let’s not forget mama Sarah who had Isaac in her 90’s. Not bad for a barren woman who was past child-bearing age.
In addition, I admire Caleb who was the only spy besides Joshua who was gung-ho to take on the giants in the Promise Land when the other spies chickened out. After forty years of wandering around in the dessert, he was still ready to conquer the land inhabited with giants when he was 85.
All of these seniors depended on God for their strength and abilities. Besides Bible heroes, I have to face the fact that current culture does not appreciate old age as God apparently does. However, if I had to choose, you can guess whose opinion I would take. As long as I can serve Him, I would pick God’s opinion on my value, every time. He knows me inside and out, unlike the world and has given me whatever talents and abilities I might have.
So, come on 77. I think I’m ready for you. Another year on this planet to serve God and man.