The story...
"Abraham breathed his last and died at a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life; and he was gathered to his people." (Genesis 25:8 NASB). What does it mean to die at a ripe old age?
Katherine Kyle wrote a helpful article that listed seven signs that a banana is ripe and healthy to eat:
- brown spots
- soft when squeezed
- no green on the stem
- snaps off stem easily
- easy to peel with no resistance
- no sound when peeling
- doesn't leave film on teeth
So, what are the signs that a person dies at a ripe old age? I expect they'd be considered ripe if they fully worked out their life as their Creator willed. Maybe they've used up their gifts and resources toward fulfilling their purpose - bearing fruit along the way?
How would people work out their life within the only church in town? First they'd have an ongoing relationship with God through prayer and mediation. Then, I expect that the community would offer, and encourage, the application of each members gifts in accordance with the will of God. They'd need to know, teach and affirm the knowable will of God. Then, I expect we'd see the fruits of God's Spirit being worked out along the way. Like the spots on the banana we'd sense: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Goodness, Kindness, Faithfulness and Self Control within the people as they worked out their lives together.
What a joy it would be to know that I died at a "ripe old age." Who would merely opt to die at an old age?
Just for today...
How might I best apply what's available to me within the next hour? Pondering that thought seems good yet a first step of action seems better. If you're down - walk alongside an encourager in truth.
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