Perhaps you could write another article on 'a biblical vision of the sixth sixth of life' addressing the place and purpose of our very elderly believers who have lived beyond the point that they can attend church and participate in intergenerational worship on their own initiative. We used to call some of them 'shut ins' and this description sometimes gave the reality of their condition a sense of legitimacy. Perhaps a better word would be 'shut-out' since their experience of the church in their final end stage of this life is one of isolation from the church. The beauty of their presence in the body of Christ is missed. Our young generation does not glean from their wisdom and the joy and inspiration of the youth does not reach their ears. The touch and powerful grip of a tiny hand is not felt in their hands. A few elders or pastors make their way for a routine visit at best. But the 'six sixth' are isolated from the community and the community is incomplete without them. Sometimes it is even the tragic case that they exit this side of heaven alone. Thanks for bringing Light to the need of the 'Third Third'. It is inspirational. It made me think about the 'six sixth' May the body of Christ be one!
Posted in: A Biblical Vision for the Third Third of Life
Perhaps you could write another article on 'a biblical vision of the sixth sixth of life' addressing the place and purpose of our very elderly believers who have lived beyond the point that they can attend church and participate in intergenerational worship on their own initiative. We used to call some of them 'shut ins' and this description sometimes gave the reality of their condition a sense of legitimacy. Perhaps a better word would be 'shut-out' since their experience of the church in their final end stage of this life is one of isolation from the church. The beauty of their presence in the body of Christ is missed. Our young generation does not glean from their wisdom and the joy and inspiration of the youth does not reach their ears. The touch and powerful grip of a tiny hand is not felt in their hands. A few elders or pastors make their way for a routine visit at best. But the 'six sixth' are isolated from the community and the community is incomplete without them. Sometimes it is even the tragic case that they exit this side of heaven alone. Thanks for bringing Light to the need of the 'Third Third'. It is inspirational. It made me think about the 'six sixth' May the body of Christ be one!