The Wisdom of Old

Just ask the previous generation. Pay attention to the experience of our ancestors. For we were born but yesterday and know nothing. Our days on earth are as fleeting as a shadow. But those who came before us will teach you. They will teach you the wisdom of old.
Job 8:8-10 NLT

One of my friends recently lost his uncle. This uncle was the last surviving member of the previous generation of his family. The mantle has now passed to my friend and his siblings and first cousins. They are now officially the older generation. The weight of the solemnity was palpable in the moment of that realization.

It is the same with the paternal side of my own family. My siblings and I are the older generation. We are the keepers of the history such as we know it. Recently, I was looking through old family pictures - trying to find pictures my daughter had requested of her dad who died in 2001. In the looking, I found pictures of family members on my mother's side who I have no idea who they are. There are no names on the pics, but i know they're family because our bloodline is strong and you can tell by looking. But as I went through those old pictures, I found myself wistful - wishing I had asked Mom this or Dad that.

Why didn't I take the time to ask? Too busy? Didn't seem important at the time? We think life goes on forever - and it does - but not the way we know it and soon we are left here with the not knowing. I have concerns that the next generation will know even less than we do about the family history because they're even busier than we were... 

As sad as that can sound, it is worse that there is a large number of the next generation who know nothing about the history of being a follower of Christ.

We must teach them the wisdom of old. Just like Proverbs 16:31 states, The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, IF it is found in the way of righteousness. [emphasis mine]. We must teach them the wisdom of old.

Prayer:

Father,
           Prepare the hearts and minds of the next generations to see and hear and learn of You. Birth in them a thirst to know more of You. Renew in us the vigor to teach them what is necessary for life. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen