February 23, 2025

The Last Leg

Written by Pat Elsberry

The wisdom that comes with age is a gift, allowing us to reflect Christ’s love and grace more fully as we look forward to the eternal life that awaits.”

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – February 23, 2025

Though my flesh and my heart fail, God is the rock of my heart, my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

Recently, I listened to a message from Martha Wilson, the Founder of Touching Hearts Ministries and an inspiring woman of God whom I admire and respect. As she started her New Year’s message, she shared how she was seeking what God wanted her to do this year. As she prayed, she found this question bubbling up in her spirit, “Lord, how do you want me to run this last leg of my race?” When she reflected upon those words, she admitted she didn’t really like the sound of that, as it made it seem as if her life was coming to an end. However, if we think about it, many of us are no longer considered young or even middle-aged and are indeed on the last leg of our race. But this doesn’t mean we have one foot in the grave. Aging is often seen as a journey filled with loss—loss of strength, vitality, and time. But for those who follow Christ, aging can instead be viewed as an accumulation of wisdom and spiritual richness. It is an opportunity to grow deeper in faith, gaining a perspective that only time and experience can provide.

As we age, we are reminded of life’s fleeting nature. This realization can lead us to embrace a more eternal perspective, valuing the things of God above the things of this world. Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” With age comes the awareness that life is precious and short, encouraging us to invest more intentionally in our relationship with God and in the lives of others.

One of the blessings of aging as a Christ follower is the ability to reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout life’s seasons. As we experience joys, trials, and everything in between, we witness firsthand how God sustains and leads us. Romans 5:3-4 tells us that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Our past experiences, when viewed through the lens of faith, cultivate a wisdom that younger generations can benefit from.

Aging also offers the opportunity to mentor and guide others. Titus 2 encourages older men and women to teach younger generations, passing down the faith and sharing wisdom born of experience. Our walk with Christ over the years equips us with insights, lessons, and testimonies that can encourage and uplift others on their journey.

Ultimately, as Christ followers, being on the last leg of our journey is not a decline but an ascent toward spiritual maturity. The wisdom that comes with age is a gift, allowing us to reflect Christ’s love and grace more fully as we look forward to the eternal life that awaits. In Christ, this is not something to fear but a path toward deeper trust and intimacy with God.

“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).

Prayer

Father, thank you for creating moments of opportunity to use my life experiences to encourage others, touching hearts and lives in a positive way.


Application

Think about those you come in contact with. Is there a young person who could use your wisdom and guidance? Reach out and invite them to have coffee with you.


Related Reading

Proverbs 16:31; Isaiah 46:4; Psalm 71:9; Psalm 90:12


Worship Resource

Matthew West: The Last Song


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