Mature, seasoned, senior—no matter what word is used, the message conveyed by these words is "old." Scientists differ on the matter of when humans stop growing in their lifetime and start the process of becoming old. Some pessimists would say that a person begins dying as soon as he or she is born.

A lot of things can make it difficult, even miserable, to grow old—deteriorating health, the death of friends and loved ones, losing touch with society, financial difficulties, and more. Changes like these are hard to swallow, but Paul reminds us they are temporary. We can age gracefully if we have an attitude of recognizing that "inwardly we are being renewed day by day."

The Bible talks about long life as a reward for obedience to God. Proverbs 16:31 adds that "gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness." If one is able to lead a life of righteousness in Christ, growing old is an honor. In Leviticus 19:32 the younger ones among God's people are reminded, "Show respect for the elderly and revere your God."

I pray that our older readers may live a life that is pleasing to God and filled with blessings. I also pray that the younger generations will honor them, learn from their experience, and praise God for their witness and example (Matthew 5:16).