Love, and Steadfastness"

“Older men are to be sober-minded and dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness.” (Titus 2:2 ESV)

How do you want your life to be reflected? Whether you are a man or a woman, I think we all would like to be remembered as someone who reflected Christ. As we age, we mature in Christ, and we should be demonstrating that maturity.

We often talk about how we feel like we are in our 20s when, in fact, we are in our 60s. While we may feel that way, our rambunctious ways should no longer be a part of who we are. We should strive to have patience, understanding, and love for those around us. While we may have great passion for spreading the gospel, we should be reminded of Peter, who said, "Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15).

Paul urges Titus to teach the older men to reflect the love, mercy, and temperance of Christ in their lives, and as elders, they have great influence on those in their family and the body of Christ. This applies to women as well, for many great matriarchs stood prominently in both. Ruth, Ester, and Tamar were all listed in the genealogy of Christ for a reason. They were all strong women of faith and family.

Through Paul’s teaching to the Galatians, we know: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”(5:22-23) These are fruits of the Spirit we receive in salvation, and when we display them, our devotion to Christ is put on display for those around us. The peace of Christ descends upon us, and we feel the difference; in times of frustration, we know to pray for temperance.

Today, as we grow older and see retirement before us, we often worry about our finances, our health, and our place in this world. But Paul tells us through his letter to Titus that this should not be our focus. Our biggest concern should be this question: “Have I yielded to Christ?” Am I a good servant? Where is my devotion? Are we of greater value to Christ now than we were in our Christian infancy? These are what matter most. God will always provide for us, no matter our age.

So, let us be students of Paul and Titus. Let us bridle our passions. Let our speech be bold and yet gentle. Let us exemplify Christ with kindness, mercy, and grace. Let us mortify those things that drain our spiritual passion and are venomous to the influence we display to those around us.

We are great in Christ, but Christ is greater than all. Center your life on your Savior, and you will be worthy of the gray hair, a sign of wisdom that comes with time. If you have not yielded to Jesus Christ, seek Him now and find salvation through His grace and mercy.

Grace and Peace.