Lifelong Love

This past week as a one of requirements for school, I shadowed a physician who treats elderly individuals who are too ill to leave their homes to receive care. Since I’m normally surrounded by individuals about my age, I don’t normally think about aging (honestly, 30 even seems ridiculously old to me!). Right now, I feel that I am working hard to build my own life and become independent, but observing these elderly patients made me realize ultimately, at some point in my life, I’ll be right back where I was at the beginning – dependent and desperately needing the care of others. To be frank, that scares me. For as much as I like to think I can easily depend on others (especially God!), I value my independence a whole lot. As I was wrestling with this, I came across some awesome verses:

For you have been my hope, Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth. 
From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you. I have become a sign to many; you are my strong refuge.My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. Do not cast me away when I am old; 
do not forsake me when my strength is gone. - Psalm 71: 5-10

Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. 
I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. - Isaiah 46:4

I don’t know about you, but I absolutely LOVE these images about having a lifelong relationship with Christ. One of the biggest comforts to me when I’m doubting God is thinking about how He has been a constant presence in my life ever since I was a little girl. So many other things have changed, but Christ has been my constant. These verses suggest that not only does God offer his constant presence throughout our lifetimes, but also constant hope, confidence, and support. That’s pretty amazing – it even makes me excited about growing old to see how my relationship with God will grow and change!

In keeping with my tradition of posting songs that maybe don’t 100% percent relate but are still excellent and get the general sentiment across (love taking general songs and making them god-related!), I leave you with Stay with You by John Legend.