Ah, To Be Young At Heart

The age old search for the fountain of youth is ever present in our culture. I guess there is something appealing about the zest and energy of youth, the beauty and freshness of that springtime season. But the search seems to be aimed at appearance rather than a mindset.

"Young At Heart" -- I don't know how many of you are old enough to remember that oldie but goodie. My mom and I used to hum along with this tune as it played on our old Connie Francis album -- you know, the large round black plastic kinds?

"And as rich as you are, it's much better by far to be young at heart."

The Bible commends those with a childlike faith, no matter what their age. Caleb had zeal that surpassed most of his younger counterparts. When we wait on the Lord our strength is renewed.

"Don't you know that it's worth every treasure on earth, to be young at heart?"

People spend untold fortunes seeking physical youth - creams, potions, exercise machines, surgery, dyes, colors. You name it, it's been tried. I admit, I've even tried some of it! But more than youthful skin and physique, I am seeking a youthful heart.

"You can go to extremes with impossible schemes. You can laugh when your dreams fall apart at the seams. And life gets more exciting with each passing day. And love is either in your heart or on its way."

There is an innocence found in youth. Hope abounds. Reckless abandonment rules the day. A willing heart to trust and try. When these things become rooted in faith, mountains are moved - or taken, if you are Caleb.

And youth is ever looking ahead. Have you ever noticed that your five year old celebrates his birthday today and tomorrow begins planning his six year old party? The future is always in his heart and his mind. As Christians, this is the secret to a youthful heart. We have a future, a guaranteed future. We just need to fix our sight on it; get a bead on it, never let it go. It is a hope-filled destiny, an eternity of serving Him. And it begins here and now. No one can take that from us!

"And if you should survive to a hundred and five look at all you'll derive out of being alive. And here is the best part - you'll have a head start, if you are among the very young at heart."

Life is long at times. Some days are gray, some seasons cold. Some harvests are poor and weeds overwhelm. Sometimes we take a fall, a headlong tumble down the mountain side.

But the heart of a child allows him to climb up onto Daddy's lap and rest, finding absolute comfort and peace. And in time, when Daddy says, "Hey, do you want to spend the day with me hiking to the lake?" that child-heart leaps with joy. Nothing is impossible with Daddy. All fear has melted away and reckless abandon rules again. After all, this is Daddy. Everything will be alright.

~ Oh, Lord, grant me a child-heart of faith and confidence today, that I may venture forth with You. Renew this crusty heart and make it youthful once again. Let me not grow weary, as those with age are prone to do, but let me rise up with eagle's wings. I am not ready to be finished yet! ~