You are not too old...to learn

I had another Birthday a few weeks ago, 51 (over the top) & I was thinking about God's timing (something I have been doing a lot of since April!).

I really don't mind getting old. It is a strange characteristic of American culture, the resistance of 40-60-year olds to admit that we are getting old(er). "You're not old!" I’ve been told. Hello? Compared to 20- and 30-somethings, I AM old. I don't have the energy of 30-somethings or even some 40-somethings. And I'm not going to even think about my physical body! It takes me a long time to learn what I could breeze through and remember years ago. How am I going to fit into a different culture? 

Learn a new language?

SO remind me again, why here, why now?

First I was reminded about Joseph; “Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brethren” Gen 37:2, then in Gen 41:46 “Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt.” In my notes I wrote, (reworded to fit here) Joseph as a young man was sure of his dreams and his ability to lead. Then God took him through trials and detours. Joseph wasn't ready for the top position until he was ready in God's timing. Then, Joseph's readiness coincided with Egypt's need for a wise administrator.

Then thinking back to a recent bible study on Job; I was reminded that Job, as a much older man, started anew. Besides the wisdom beyond even Jobs imagination, God blessed him with great riches and a new family, Um that’s 10 more kids to raise and living to see 4 more generations!

Then Job answered the Lord and said: “I know that You can do everything, And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You...“I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You” Job 42 (see 1-5) 

Now I have not gone through anything like either one of these men, but God has brought Tom and I through many trial and tribulations of our own, and we have had a detour or two. We have learned a few things we did not know back in 1988.

Besides pleasing God, I want wisdom and I want to continue growing always...ok the 10 more kids part, I’ll pass on, but I’ll take the spiritual kids. Like Joseph I want to put absolute trust in God, regardless of what happens.

God has brought me through much, and thankfully he has made me wiser. It may take me longer to think through what I’m doing now. But that might be a good thing in days ahead.

God only knows. It's his timing, after all!

"For the Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life." Job 33:4 

Of course it would help to have your prayers as I start Croatian language classes on the 20th.  (Language class post, click here)

Photo Facts: Both photos are taken during Tucson Az Bible Conference announcements. In the 1988 photo on the left, both P Campo (raise up under) and P Stephens (saved under) prayed for us, an honor - that was our first pioneer work in Springfield MA...and yes I made the dress I'm wearing.
Top photo is just me caught being me in a park in Zagreb.