3/16 Leviticus 19:32
32 "You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the LORD.
Advanced cultures tend to dismiss the elderly and even dishonor them. As societies become increasingly affluent selfishness tends to reign over wisdom. Youth and physical perfection are worshiped as the ultimate goal in these cultures. Look at the newsstands and notice the beautiful young faces and perfect bodies. The few magazines aimed at the elderly are often those with financial or political goals rather than honoring their wisdom and years of service.
Those who have truly walked with the LORD, both men and women, have a wealth of wisdom and experience from which we should be drawing. If you are one of the gray heads mentioned in this verse, seek out younger people that are eager to learn from your experience. If you are still the face of youth, seek out a godly elderly person of your gender that is willing to take the time to share with you. Listen for pearls of wisdom. Ask the elderly what books shaped their lives. Ask about their favorite verses of Scripture. Draw from their deep well of experience. In doing so, you will honor them and give their later years meaning and purpose while being blessed in the process.
God told Moses we should honor the elderly out of the fear of God. These elderly servants of God are the friends of God. We dismiss them to our own peril. I believe this verse is suggesting that we will face God's discipline if we ignore them. We will all walk in their shoes one day. How do you want to be treated then?
Admonition: Honor the elderly among you with respect and time, especially those who have lived a life of faithful service to God. Carefully consider any advice they give.
