"So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day." 2 Corinthians 4.16
It is said that Juan Ponce de Le'on searched for the fountain of youth and hear in the New World we continue his frantic quest. We are obsessed with youth. We are obsessed as a culture with trying to defy the reality of our growing older by hiding the signs of our aging through any number of products that restore color, increase libido, defy gravity, and convince us that we are immune to the ravages of time. Here's the stats: Americans spent in 2014 over 10 BILLION dollars on cosmetic plastic surgery. It is estimated that the anti-aging generates 88 BILLION dollars a year--in America!
The Apostle Paul knows what we--even with our surgeries, pills, dyes, procedures, and denial--have tried to forget. Our bodies eventually will betray us. We are creatures with a limited lifespan; but there is a part of us that is immortal. The key to a healthy life, and healthy aging--according to Paul--is to nurture our inner nature, that is to grow in our spiritual awareness and as disciples of Jesus. While our bodies are destined to decline, our spirit has the potential to grow and evolve.
Interesting how we throw so much time and money into that which is destined for dust; and pay so little attention to that which is destined for glory!
A prayer: "Dear Lord, we are indeed marvelously made and we thank you for gift of life. We ask that as our own strength fades that we might grow in our love and appreciation for all that you have done, now, and in the world to come. Amen"
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