Why We Need Older Voices

Day 75: Luke 2:1-35

“Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.” - Luke 2:25

Jesus has now been born, which was announced by the house musicians of heaven (angels) to the lowly shepherds. Jesus' parents were God-fearing people, which is evidenced by them having him circumcised (on the 8th day), going through the time of purification, and then coming into the temple to offer the sacrifice for their firstborn son.

After this, they encountered two elderly people (Simeon and Anna) who were extremely faithful to God, and this was shown by their sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. When we increase in age and don't stop spending time listening to (and speaking with) God, there is nothing sweeter.

Our younger generation of Christians today desperately needs the older. Now, it isn't about doing things the exact same way as we did 50 years ago as a church (methodologically). It is more about helping us to become who Jesus wants us to be. It is about a broader perspective. It is to start seeing that our faith in Jesus isn't something that will go out of style. It will always be relevant to each generation that is open to seeking our Savior.

If we refuse the mentorship of older Christians, we are lowering the ceiling on our potential. The aged open up our minds to a God that is much bigger than we at first imagined.

As author Craig Groeschel's 80-year-old mentor once told him, "You young people think too small."

This is yet another reason for the importance of our involvement in the local church.