Minister Victor Parrott
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NRSV)

¹⁶So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, ¹⁸because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.

The Reality of Mortality 

As I grow older, I am becoming more aware of the reality of my mortality. The once prevalent feeling of invincibility has been replaced with the truth of my vulnerability. Aging does indeed have a way of humbling one by imposing heretofore non-existent physical limitations. But the key point is that these limitations are physical.

Fortunately, there is also a spiritual dimension to life. And, generally, there is an inverse relationship between the physical and the spiritual dimensions. As physical vitality diminishes, spiritual awareness and maturity increases. It is the spiritual aspect of being that will extend through eternity. So as Paul notes, the physical challenges, afflictions and failings cannot be compared to that which exists in the spiritual realm because this earthly existence is but a brief occurrence on the timeline of life.

Therefore, if you don’t see or hear as well as you used to, move as quickly as you once did or are impaired by some other infirmity, take heart. God is developing you spiritually for this life and the one to follow.

Prayer 

O God, the Giver and Sustainer of life, we give You thanks for life that extends beyond that which is visible and tangible. Amen.

Thought for the day 

Aging has its advantages.