Warning: Danger Ahead

In the post Golden Apples, you learned old age is inevitable for many people (on planet Earth). To make the most of those “golden” years, courage (and determination) is needed to be the best version of you possible.

When children turn into adults and their role switches from subservient offspring to close, concerned friend, this question could arise: “How can I take care of both my parents (or just one) when they need me the most (as I needed them as a young child)?”

Matthew 15:4 (MSG) gives this serious warning to adult children. “God clearly says, ‘Respect your father and mother…’ Anyone [rejecting] father or mother should [die].’” This verse is the New Testament version of Moses’ law (from God for Israel) called, “The Ten Commandments.”

 Exodus 20:12 (MSG) directs “Honor your father and mother so that you’ll live a long time… [that] God is giving you.” As you can see, the Almighty takes this parental respect mandate seriously. Once you are an adult; I feel you are no longer under your parent’s rule to do everything that is asked of you. (You have the ability to say, “no.”) 

As long as you are living (no matter how bad you’re parents might have been), biblically (out of respect) it is your duty (for you or you and your siblings) to take care of them in both life (and death).

Take a moment and read Ecclesiastes 12:1-5 in some modern- day translation (or version). It describes some of aspects that can be involved in the world of a senior citizen. There can be poor stamina (strength), blurry vision (without glasses), inconsistent body temperature (constantly cold), joints stiffen (pain) and walking hurts, weak handshake (or grip), insomnia (getting or staying asleep), immobility (and instability), gray (or salt and pepper) hair, and too thin (from lack of appetite).

The Golden Rule (given in Matthew 7:12 of The Message) is a need for everyone. “Here is a simple rule-by-rule thumb guide for behavior:  Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the [idea] and do it for [others]…”

One day the circle (progression or karma) of life may come back around to you. You may be the receiver of someone else’s care in both life (and your funeral). When that time comes, how do you wish things to go? What do you need to do differently now?