August 15, 2024

Paul´s Letter to Titus 2:2

Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. 

Dear Readers,

do old men really look like the friendly Santa Claus on this British stamp? The apostle Paul was probably not thinking of such a vital senior citizen with white hair and a full beard when he gave his important advice to old men. Old men rarely wear a full white beard. But with or without a beard: what the apostle Paul has to say to the elderly is very important!

First, it is very interesting that Paul explicitly addresses old men in his letter. He "prescribes" a very special lifestyle for them. Comparing to a doctor prescribing a certain therapy or special medication for his patients, Paul in his letter prescribes a Christian lifestyle for old men. 

Paul's first recommendation is that the elderly should remain sober. He is not only referring to a moderate consumption of wine or alcohol, but also to a moderate lifestyle. They should realistically assess their life situation with common sense. They should voluntarily restrict themselves where necessary. They should concentrate on the essentials. They never should lose sight of eternity with our God in mind. 

This includes being healthy in faith and in love for others. A healthy faith in God and healthy relationships with family, friends and neighbors represent a major task in old age. Because there is a great danger of becoming embittered in old age when physical fitness declines. There is a great danger of being disappointed in God when the body turns weak and health declines. When the outpatient nursing service arrives in the morning to help with personal hygiene. Disappointment can come when you are no longer the center of attention in your social environment, but increasingly become a marginal figure. 

Remaining patient can also become of great challenge, especially in old age. It seems as if the years are ticking away like in an hourglass, increasing fear of missing out. Of missing out on something that you don't want to do without. Can I wait patiently? Or maybe even do without wishes?

Have you ever prayed to become sober, level-headed, healthy in faith and love in old age? Have you ever prayed to be a patient person? That means living patiently, trusting in God's presence. Trusting that the Lord Jesus Christ is on your side and will remain your good shepherd, taking care of you even in old age? Then I think you are a man who deserves respect. Then you are a man who leads a sanctified life through faith in God. That honors you! 

I hope that you remain healthy in your faith and in your love for God and your fellow human beings, even in times when your physical fitness starts to decline.

Thank you very much for listening to me. I cordially invite you to the next devotion on September 1. May our good God bless you!