We have a growing reverence for the aged. It ever was characteristic of Jewish religious life to
honor the aged. It is a touching and beautiful sight to view one in the sunset of life waiting with
delight for the "Home” call_whether it be their Saviour’s shout in the air or for the spirit’s
release_to be ushered into His blessed presence. The heart is yet brave; the love is as fervent as
in early days, though more matured; the purpose of the heart and the calm unshaken confidence
in the Lord are unchanged; the growth of many years is reflected on the wrinkled, suffering, yet
patient countenance. How chastened! How mellowed! How useful the ripe experience! "They
shall still bring forth fruit in old age" (Psa. 92:14).

The physical vigor of youth may give way, but there is a power outside the domain of nature:
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as
eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint" (Isa. 40:31).

Think of the spirit of brave Caleb who, when 85 years of age said, “As yet I am as strong this day
as I was in the day that Moses sent me [40 years previously]; as my strength was then, even so is
my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in” (Josh. 14:11). Caleb was not tired of
the conflict. He drew his spiritual strength from God. The source of his courage was in God
Himself.

For ourselves, and for all our beloved aged pilgrims, we long and pray for spiritual energy. Press
on with increasing desire. The heavenly manna is needed equally for your closing hours as in the
springtide of earlier days. So feed on Christ, fathers and mothers in Israel. Where, of course,
there is a collapse of the physical powers, one can only wait in patience the joyful summons,
“Come Home!”A few more struggles and then Eternal Rest above, in the sunshine of His love.