(Written 02/12/2013)

I write this morning in a reflective mood, as this is my 70th birthday. I have never before paid much attention to my age but this year I am strangely aware that this is the number of years we can “expect” and any more are an “additional gift.” My goal, which feels like quite a stretch, is that I will live these next pages or chapters of my story with gratitude and surrender. I want to strive less for how I want things to be and rest more in what God ordains.

I am hoping to have coffee this morning with a new friend. His birthday is today, also. He is now 27 years old. I have grown to love him and want to be a grandmother to his new baby. Yesterday I announced we were twins. This prompted, “You don’t look alike.” I said we are not identical!! This is quite obvious in that I am 43 years older and my skin is a different color. Yet, I feel a kinship and I want to proclaim God’s power to this young man.

This is the verse I want to claim and express in this next season of life:

“Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” (From Psalm 71)

Has God brought someone into your life to whom you can declare his power? Is there someone in your story that has declared God’s power to you?