In the heat of mid-August I long for the cooler temperatures of winter when I can again wear my disreputable shirt.  It’s a blue-plaid flannel that my mother gave me for Christmas nearly 50 years ago when I still lived in Chicago. I can only wear the disreputable shirt  around the house because the collar is tattered, the cuffs frayed, and there are a few holes in it. I really like that shirt because after all these years it’s very comfortable, and it makes me think of my mother.  Besides, the shirt is a little like me, frayed around the edges.

Most of us don’t think about getting old until we are. It’s when you have to keep a pair of reading  glasses nearby so you can find your other glasses. It’s when you take a tumble trying to put your shoe on without sitting down, or when you put milk in the pantry instead of the refrigerator. Getting old is what causes the Psalmist to pray: “So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me” (Psalm 71:18).

I take comfort from God’s continuing care for me even when I feel like the disreputable shirt that is ready for the rag bag, but still has plenty of life left in it. I always tell people God isn’t through with them. No matter how you feel some days, God won’t toss you aside. You still have purpose and a mission. You are still loved and can love.

God never gives up on you.

Read Psalm 92:12-15 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne