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New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

"A Liturgy for Morning Prayer," Upper Room Worshipbook

Used by permission from the Book of Common Worship, © 2018 Westminster John Knox Press. All rights reserved. This prayer appears in “A Liturgy for Morning Prayer” in Upper Room Worshipbook.

Today’s Reflection

AGING COMES whether I notice it or not. It doesn’t stop to ask for permission. It cannot be turned off like a faucet. Like the waves, it comes continuously and steadily, just as God designed it. Why, then, do I try to stop aging as though it’s a disease from which I need a cure? The rhythm of aging is like the ebb and flow of the sea. In aging, as in life, I’ve experienced undeniable loss and unimaginable blessing; I have felt sorrow and immense joy. The beach calls me to a life of promise. Just as the tide of aging persists, so does the faithfulness of my steadfast God.

—Missy Buchanan
Beach Calling: A Devotional Journal for the Middle Years and Beyond

From page 64 of Beach Calling by Missy Buchanan. Copyright © 2019 by The Upper Room. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Upper Room Books. Learn more about or purchase this book.

Today’s Question

What are some of the aspects of aging that bring you joy?  Share your thoughts.

Today’s Scripture

Even to your old age and gray hairs…I am he who will sustain you.
—Isaiah 46:4, NIV

Prayer for the Week

Like the waves of the ocean rolling onto the sand, may God’s glorious grace rush in to my heart and soul again and again. Submit your prayer to The Upper Room Living Prayer Center or share it in the comment section.

Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

Sponsored by The Upper Room. Copyright © 2019 | PO Box 340004 | Nashville, TN 37203-0004 | USA

6 Comments

  • Jill Posted July 6, 2019 6:03 am

    Dare I say wisdom? I do feel that God answers my prayers regarding wisdom and discernment. Certainly a better understanding of Him, growing in relationship with Him, sensing what He would have me do. And – of course – His peace – so present, unmatchable, unfathomable.
    The title caught my eye – Steadfast God. During the last several weeks of mom’s life – much of my time in the Word was spent in The Psalms. Practically daily, often multiple times a morning – “steadfastness” would be there. His steadfastness and His call to me to remain steadfast in supporting my dad as we cared for mom. So grateful to have His Presence through all.
    Yesterday afternoon I spent time with my sister – the first time we have had alone since mom passed. It was quite pleasant and we had some real, meaningful conversation (which is not a given between us) regarding mom and dad. We did a short bike ride, turning around when we saw the darkening clouds ahead and made it back to the car before the skies opened.
    Another praise from yesterday – the results of my students’ testing from May are in. And – I am so grateful that they all received passing marks for my courses. Generally speaking, my students do well yearly, as my course is considered “standard” level, as opposed to three of their courses which are “higher” level. Nonetheless – I was a little anxious as to how they would do this year, as I missed 11 days at the end of March and beginning of April to be with mom and dad. This was crucial time during review – but I am grateful they were not hindered too much by my being out. I was just elated when the scores came through.

  • Betsy Posted July 6, 2019 7:01 am

    As I have aged, I’ve had the joy of watching my children grow both physically and emotionally. Seeing them become independent thinkers is something my father missed in my life. Also, the wisdom that often comes with experiences in my life. God can be seen in the many valleys and hills of my life, weaving in and out of the years.

    Hope you have all had a relaxing Independence Day holiday. We’ve enjoyed time with friends and neighbors as we begin the process of packing up to move by the end of the summer.

    Congratulations, Jill, for your hard work in teaching your students this year! I know you are proud of the effort that they put in and the test scores proved it.

  • Julie Posted July 6, 2019 8:11 am

    My first thought was joy in aging , how absurd. But then I recalled how I felt when I realized that I am less apt to let little things bother me and that I am more patient and tolerant. These are things to savor for they enhance my relationships.
    Prayers for Jill and Becky, may they continue to enjoy time together.
    Prayers for Betsy and her husband as they prepare to move.
    Prayers for Connie and her new hummer who may be a returning baby.
    Prayers for Mary and her family, may she be filled with joy.
    rayers for Marcy, may she be well and receiving medical care.
    Prayers for Robert and Erich, may they find new ways to be fruitful.
    H comes home today. I know he went on vacation with his other “family.” Megan and my time of peace ends.
    Prayers, blessings, warm hugs and thank you dear UR family

    • Mary Ng Shwu Ling Posted July 6, 2019 9:41 am

      Thanks Julie!

      May you be blessed and filled with God’s love, joy and peace!

  • Connie Posted July 6, 2019 8:25 am

    Aging is a challenge, that’s for sure. I just want to do it with as much dignity as possible. However, I do agree with Julie, I am somewhat more patient, but a LOT slower!
    All teachers need to have Jill’s qualities.
    My petunia was mowed down by the morning paper, but we have great paper delivery so I can’t complain. I put it in a glass of rain water and it’s in my front window, where the new buds will bloom, hopefully.
    So mixed up on days………

  • Mary Ng Shwu Ling Posted July 6, 2019 8:48 am

    Aging with God’s presence, love and grace is great! Draws me closer to God cause I am leaning and relying more and more on Him. Trusting and loving Him more.

    Thank you God for helping me to age gracefully with You!

    Blessings!

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