My mother is 87 and is in poor health. She is still mentally as sharp as ever, but her body is failing to the point that her quality of life is poor at best. With a voice sounding tired and worn out she recently said, “Growing old isn’t for sissies!”

Growing old is the great societal leveler. Arthritis, cancer, high blood pressure, heart and lung problems, and a host of other diseases are not respecters of the haves or the have-nots. Loneliness, isolation, and fear are present in the aged regardless of social status. What is the secret of contentment in the final years of life? Heaven is for real, and until God calls us home we can have hope and purpose!

I am reminded of a group of seniors in a Kansas nursing home who prayed for an American stationed in Iraq on his second of three tours. In addition to their prayers they sent him cards and letters. As a testament to the love of these seniors, an American flag that was flown over Iraq is now displayed in a case at the entrance of the nursing home, personally delivered by the American they faithfully supported with their prayers and letters.

Yes, Heaven is for real and all seniors, even seniors in nursing homes, can have hope and purpose until God calls them home.

Stan Means
Elder Source Senior Ministries

Picture above is found on various Internet sites. We are not sure of the original source.