USGN June 2005 article
Written by Barbi Franklin

How Old Are You?

Now that Terry and I are in our mid 40’s, we’ve had quite a few “life experiences”, both good and bad. I hope we’ve gained some wisdom along the way. We want to “age” well. But the years and experiences all of us have in life can turn us either “bitter” or “better.” Why do some people grow sweeter with age? Is it because life has just been easy for them? Not usually.

By the time people are in their 40’s, most have been injured at times by others. Then how do some people in there 60’s or 70’s ooze such love, compassion, and graciousness? I think I know the answer, because I’ve seen it modeled by a few godly people in my life.

My mom just turned 75 years of age. She and my dad have grown sweeter year after year. Their passion for God stirs new hunger for the Lord and His Word in my heart daily as I see God work in and through them. I was teasing mom about dad on their latest visit through Nashville a few months ago. “Mom, what are we going to do with dad?!” I chuckled. And in a sweet and sincere tone, she smiled, “I’m just going to love him the way he is!” And she meant it!

I’ve seen my mom and dad turn into two little love-birds over the last 15 years. Both full-time ministers, they’ve gone through a lot of pain in life, but have never turned bitter toward the world, others, or each other. I realized the secret of their “sweetness.” They have simply chosen to keep on forgiving and giving, becoming fountains of love, life, and blessing to all those around them (including 15 grandchildren).

When others fail us and we choose to forgive, allowing God to heal our wounds (which we all have), we get “better” with age (Matthew 18:34-35). Not only did Christ come to heal the broken-hearted (Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61), but once we’ve received His healing, we can become a tool to bring healing and restoration to others that are broken-hearted (Psalm 23:3; Isaiah 53:4).

God is always faithful to heal us when we ask Him to. This is part of the gospel message. And we can be sure that even if others have ill will toward us, when we choose to forgive, God will always use it for good (Genesis 50:20).
 

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