“Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”
Luke 2:29-32
I did a little digging this week and found some interesting data on senior living.
- Nearly 1 in 3 retired adults are clinically depressed, says theretirementmanifesto.com. They also report that retirement increases the chances for depression by 40% and 60% of folks retire earlier than planned, which can also lead to depression from a lost sense of identity.
- A 2023 national poll found 34% of adults aged 50–80 reported feeling isolated some or most of the time. About 37% also reported lacking companionship (healthyagingpoll.org).
- “Research shows that chronic loneliness can impact older adults’ memory, physical well-being, mental health, and life expectancy” (Time.com).
- According to an article from the National Council on Aging written in August of 2024, 80% of older adults are either financially struggling now or are at risk for economic insecurity in retirement.
I did this digging to back up what I have learned from experience in ministry. Quite often, seniors feel alone, especially when loved ones have died, their careers have concluded, and their sense of purpose and vitality are unclear. It is easy to question God with “Why am I still here?”
I think it is a natural response to confess our readiness to enter eternity, to be impatient with waiting for “God’s timing.” My point is that Sunday’s theme of “Never too late: waiting faithfully” is not an easy concept. The faithful challenge before us is to achieve a balance where we are both ready for life eternal whenever that day comes and to also embrace the opportunity in each day on this earth to share God’s love with others.
The older adults named Simeon and Anna from Luke 2:25-38 are the exemplary models for the church to strive emulate. This story is the culmination of a much-anticipated moment, the coming of the Messiah. Simeon sings a song of praise, and the prophetess tells the good news to anyone ready to listen.
There is much work left to be done in sharing the hope of Christ with the world, and this calling is ours. We must comfort, support, and motivate each other to live in the balance of faithful waiting. I look forward to worshipping with you in person or on YouTube this Sunday.
Brett
