Feeling Useless

Hebrews 10:24 – And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds. (NIV)

The Bible tells us not to discourage the young in their attempts at learning or doing things. We also need to see how excluded some older folk often feel. They are still necessary and are our greatest teachers.

Twice a year, I visited my dad when he was alone. There were little jobs that required someone younger. Every so often, I had to holler for help from him. His windows were huge sliders and needed to be lifted out for cleaning. One in particular was so tight that I slid an old knife under one end to give it an edge. The problem was that I couldn't reach both ends and lift at the same time. Dad held the knife while I lifted the window out and replaced it.

On another occasion, the light bulb in the centre of the kitchen needed to be changed. His little step stool had only three or four steps and did not extend past the top one. I asked him to stand beside me so I could just put my hand on his shoulder to balance. He felt like a hero — I could see it in his face. From then on, I made a point of including him once in a while if the task wasn't too tiring. He lived to be 92, and he had his own place.

Psalm 71:9 – Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone. (NIV)

We are so frail compared to God, yet He chooses to use us for His helpers. He could do things so much faster Himself, but He gives us tasks within our capability. We are not heroes but vessels important to Him.

Prayer: Lord, please help us to be faithful in what You give us to do, and to include others when it seems wise, so that You will have the glory. Amen.

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