A Throwaway Society

Psalm 71:9 – Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone. (NIV)

Two years ago when the local YMCA had its grand opening after renovation, a lovely cement planter was placed at the entrance filled with shrubs, smaller blooming plants, and vines, creating a lovely spot of beauty for those going in and out of the building. The planter and I formed a relationship last spring when grasses began to grow among the native plants. About once a week during the spring and summer, I pulled the grasses out of the container. We went through a period of drought in the late summer and fall, and it was evident no one was watering the plants. It was not convenient or even possible for me to water the plants. They slowly wilted and lost their beauty.

One morning, my plants were gone. A beautiful holly tree surrounded by pansies at its base had replaced them. It will make a beautiful showplace during the winter months and into the early spring. My heart ached, though, for the plants that had been replaced. A little tender loving care and a few drinks of water would have kept them beautiful for a long time to come.

We live in a throwaway society, which takes, uses, discards, and then starts over. As a senior citizen nearing the end of my productive years, my heart goes out to the plants that are thrown away — only because no one helped them stay alive by such a simple act as a drink of water.

Psalm 71:18 – Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. (NIV)

As Christians we can be aware of those around us and give a "drink of water" where we see the need. Many, with a little help, can continue to be productive members of Christ's kingdom, proclaiming His Word to the next generation.

Prayer: Lord, remind us that You do not forsake us, even when old. You commissioned us to declare Your power to the next generation and Your might to all who are to come. May we help others by giving them a drink of water along the way. Amen.