Christian obligation to listen to the elderly

by Vanessa Barnes
(Crosby, Texas)

As I reflect on my father, now in his later years, what stands out is how much he really enjoys conversation and being asked his advice in matters.

Without realizing it, we have catered to this notion over the years attempting to always make him feel important and vital to our family.

I read when several retirees in their 70's and 80's were asked what advice they would share with younger generations, the majority of answers were in the tone of, "It's nice to be asked."

Feelings of inclusion instead of exclusion are an overriding desire of the elderly.

As Christian caretakers, it is our responsibility to give their lives the meaning they used to give themselves.

In the same interview, one grandmother answered, "You get what you give, and love is the greatest thing."

Isn't that what Jesus preached? The greatest commandment He said, was LOVE---love Him and one another.

Remember, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you?"

Prudent advice shared from another senior was, "When you get older, you realize it (material things) all passes away...and won't give you the pleasure you are seeking."

Seems our younger years are spent seeking those material things and older years seeking God.

Make a mental shift today and understand what God expects us to do for our elderly.

Start now; make a little more time to listen, ask their opinion and allow them to share in your today.

They indeed have much to share for God has blessed them with many years of experiences and wisdom.

It is not a matter of simply making them feel important, they ARE important! Let them here it...let them know it.