Psalm 119:173-176
I have good reasons to want to grow old:
Retirement. I like going out for breakfast and reading the New York Times.
I could finally grow a mustache.
I have a 2,000-day streak on Duolingo Spanish. By the time I get to 5000, I will be able to order at Del Taco.
The Brooklyn Nets have to get better eventually.
Grandchildren are still a possibility. I will be a fun grandfather, willing to buy expensive gifts.
I could get a tattoo knowing that I won’t have it long.
Lots of old people seem easy going. I could try that.
I enjoy going to bed early.
I don’t like the idea of Carol dating anyone else.
Senior discounts.
The writer of Psalm 119 wants to live a long life so that I may praise you, and let your ordinances help me (v. 175). The psalmist wants to listen to God’s counsel, long for God’s presence, and follow God’s guidance. If the writer wanders off like a lost sheep, God will lead the psalmist home.
Fred Craddock said: “When I was in my late teens I wanted to be a preacher. When I was in my late twenties I wanted to be a good preacher. Now that I am older, I want more than anything else to be a Christian. To live simply, to love generously, to speak truthfully, to serve faithfully, and leave everything else to God.”
We could live that way today.
Consider
What would it mean for you to live that I may praise you (v. 175)?
Pray
God, help me long for your salvation, delight in your law, and live in gratitude. Amen.