Monday, April 21, 2014

MY BIRTHDAY CAKE IS GONNA EXPLODE


OK, sometime in the next few weeks, I am having a birthday.

Before you stand up and give me a *TA DA* – might I just ask you to take into consideration the number of candles on my birthday cake – (and then, please call the local fire department…)

I am turning 60.

Yup, I'm pretty sure that cake is going to explode.

How on earth did I ever get to be this age??

I can remember when I was in my teens, I would calculate how old I'd be if I lived to see the turn of the millennium.  Ooo, I would utter with googly-wide eyes – I'll be 46.

Sigh, 46 sounds so young right now.

I gotta be honest – 30 didn't really bother me.  And 40 was really OK – not so bad.  Hitting 50 didn't faze me too much.  I was a lot thinner, in much better shape, full of energy, and falling in love with "The Hub."

Turning 55 made me pause.  

That number no longer meant just an advisory speed limit, it represented *turning the corner* for me.  Now I was heading down "the other side" of the slippery slope into those middle-aged years.

What kind of a dumb phrase is that anyway?  Middle-aged?  I'm not liking it on principle alone – because if you look carefully, it has the word "aged" in it.


I'm not sure how I really feel about this milestone birthday.  

Usually I'm a big fan of my birthday.  I'm the sort of person that likes a lot of fanfare, a lot of attention.  Cards and gifts and flowers – bring 'em on!! I actually wouldn't mind telling the server at a restaurant that it was my birthday.  Beyond the free dessert, I like the extra attention.

There's this particular seafood restaurant where my sons live that actually makes you put on some sort of outfit and dance around the room acting silly.  Again, I don't think I'd mind doing that.  I did mention that I like attention, right?!

But, this year, I'm not so sure.

Maybe this year I'd like to crawl into a quiet corner and count wrinkles or pluck chin hairs.  Maybe I'd just like to toast this birthday with a glass of Geritol(remember that stuff?)

Hey, let me tell you that the father of lies is already starting his party early. He's been whispering a lot lately.  Telling me all sorts of negative stuff.  He's brought to mind my aching joints and sometimes-faulty memory.  He's pointed out the age spots and the sagging jowls and turkey neck.  Oh, and it's been really enjoyable being reminded of all the cute little clothes I can't wear anymore (emphasis on *little*).

And most of all, he's tried to convince me that I am past my prime.  Useless and purposeless.  That my dreams are unattainable now, that my goals will never be achieved, that the Lord will pass me over for more vital disciples.

You know, I've almost bought into it all.

But, with greater age I have also gained some greater wisdom.

And he's full of baloney.


At the end of this post, I am including some wonderful words from Scripture about growing older.  And as I read these verses, I was overcome with a renewed sense of God's message and purpose for me at just such a time as this!

Here's what I learned:

Growing old represents gaining a crown of glory as we live a righteous life.

Experience brings a certain splendor to us – and we should share it with others.

We have a responsibility to proclaim the Truth about God to future generations.

God never leaves us, and He will carry us along when our bodies and spirits grow tired.

God remains our hope for a future in His presence – an eternity guaranteed by Jesus Christ.


OK, that sounds pretty awesome, doesn't it?!

The Lord loves His people, and perhaps never more than when they start to slow down a bit (or a lot!).  For in our weakness, He can become more. His strength can shine brighter in bodies that are aging – for His Holy Spirit can renew our inner souls until we glow!

As prayer warriors, our achy knees can still storm the gates of Heaven.  We can use every ounce of our abilities to intercede on the behalf of others.

We can strive to live like Jesus.  Sometimes growing older affords us the ability to let go of the false enticements of outer beauty, enabling us to cultivate that inner quiet and gentle spirit that the Lord finds so attractive.

And we can pass on Truth.

I like that idea best of all.

For it truly doesn't matter how many years have flipped over on that calendar called life, I'm still needed for Kingdom work!  In some ways, my testimony and witness to the faithfulness of God holds more weightfor I can tell about decades (!!) of His great love and unchanging character.

This world, and perhaps more than ever, the younger generation, needs to hear about Jesus.  They need to hear from the ranks of gray-haired Christian soldiers.  We have a duty to speak.


And so, my birthday this year comes with a mandate to re-focus on what's important.

And what's important is that I have walked with the Lord for almost 57 years. I have stories to tell, and I have a Savior to share.

I still have purpose – and I am still needed.

Oh Lord, may You empower me to do the things that You purposed for me since before the time of creation.  May You grant me the wisdom of experience, and the opportunity to counsel others with the Truth I know about You.  May others see in me the many years that You have walked with me and shaped me.  May I never forget to tell others about Your faithfulness, and the mighty wonders You have done in my life.  May I reflect You more clearly, and glow from within.  May I serve You ever more faithfully.

Oh, and one more thing…

Could you maybe give me enough breath to blow out all those candles???




Put another candle on my birthday cake,
I'm another year old... 



"Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." 
(Proverbs 16:31, ESV)

"The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old." (Proverbs 20:29, NLT)

"I will be your God throughout your lifetime--until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you.  I will carry you along and save you." (Isaiah 46:4, NLT)

"O Lord, you alone are my hope.
I've trusted you, O LORD, from childhood.
Yes, you have been with me from birth;
from my mother's womb you have cared for me.
No wonder I am always praising you!
My life is an example to many,
because you have been my strength and protection.
That is why I can never stop praising you;
I declare your glory all day long.
And now, in my old age, don't set me aside.
Don't abandon me when my strength is failing…
God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood,
and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things you do.
Now that I am old and gray,
do not abandon me, O God.
Let me proclaim your power to this new generation,
your mighty miracles to all who come after me."

(From Psalm 71, NLT)


"So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong." (Hebrews 12:12-13, NLT)

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." (2 Timothy 4:7-8, NIV)



Are you *buying the lie* and thinking you're "over the hill"?  Or will you grab on to God's purposes for some much-needed gray-haired warriors to serve in His Kingdom?!



(True confession: My gray hairs are dyed, but I still think I'm wearing a crown!!)


Linked today with:

Joan at SHARING HIS BEAUTY
Michelle at HEAR IT ON SUNDAY, USE IT ON MONDAY
Laura at PLAYDATES WITH GOD
Jen at UNITE
Hazel at TELL ME A TRUE STORY
Jen at SOLI DEO GLORIA
Kathy at TITUS 2 TUESDAYS
Rachel at WHIMSICAL WEDNESDAYS
Judith at WHOLEHEARTED WEDNESDAY
Rosilind at A LITTLE R & R WEDNESDAYS
Beth at THREE WORD WEDNESDAY
Tracy at WINSOME WEDNESDAY
Jenifer at WORD FILLED WEDNESDAY
Kasey at WALKING REDEEMED
Lyli at THOUGHT-PROVOKING THURSDAYS
Crystal at THRIVING THURSDAY
Julie at FELLOWSHIP FRIDAYS
Bonnie at FAITH BARISTA JAM
Laura at FAITH FILLED FRIDAY
Wanda at THE FRIDAY FIVE
Mel at ESSENTIAL FRIDAYS
Charlotte at SPIRITUAL SUNDAYS
Barbie at WEEKEND BREW
Sandy at STILL SATURDAY
Janis at SUNDAY STILLNESS


BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

35 comments:

  1. Oh my... sweet Sharon, I want to just print this out and read it everyday! I too, will be turning 60 this year and like you, those numbers somehow seem to have a different connotation than 30, 40, 50 or 55 to me as well. I could have written this post, although it there is no way I could put my thoughts and feelings into words like you do. What an encourager you are! I would love to share this with so many of my friends...your blog isn't connected to facebook is it...or is it? This has given me so much hope! And that photo of you is about as cute as can be...you can't be almost 60...really???

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  2. I'm not far behind you, girlfriend. I remember being utterly depressed upon turning 40. Looking back, they were probably the best years of my life. We'll see what the coming decade holds.

    You look great, so there!

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  3. When it happens, Sharon, Happy Birthday! Sixty is the new 40, I hear them say. Hubby turned 60 last year and honestly I still can't grasp that he's 60, where did the time go? But you are right, we can always be of service and used by God for his glory no matter what age we are, we just might move a little slower, but we can still be used!

    betty

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  4. Crossing the bridge to "66" in late February occurred with little fanfare. There are days I'm truly shocked at how swiftly have passed these years; and I often scratch my head over the changes taking place in my body (nix to gravity) & my energy stores (low inventory at times). But this I know: I wouldn't go back to any of my former days. Somewhere deep inside I have learned in the Lord: The best if always yet to come." It looks like you've learned it too.

    Happiest of birthdays!

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  5. Hi Sharon, Interesting and encouraging blog, I know the feelings and more. I am a bit ahead of you in this (race?) here's to concentrating on the positive, full of The Lord's Wisdom.

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  6. Hey Friend! I was out with a girlfriend, and she said she would be turning 60 next year. She said it sounded so old... I silently agreed. Then I realized I'd be 60 next year too!!! Too funny!
    You know, 60 is probably the new 45. Yes, I'm a bit creaky, but still full of life, and you are too. Love that 'thumbs up' photo :) Listen to the angels my friend, don't give the liar a way in. We are awesome and full of purpose!!
    Happy Birthday early...save me a piece of cake with plenty of frosting, ok?
    Ceil

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  7. Oh, believe me, there's nothing to fear in turning 60! I am 62 and still enjoying life in Jesus to the full! He is my strength and song! Love all the scriptures here because they are true! And, you look just great, not your age at all. I love you and wish you the happiest of birthdays when the big day arrives!
    xx oo

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  8. I am sooooo not buying the lie that I am over the hill. I am ready for a new season...God has plans for us through every one and I'm excited about them all.....turned 66 in March:). Have a great birthday, Sharon!

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  9. Honey, you are still a young chick, I love you.

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  10. AMEN Sharon ... boy, do I need the strength and power of this message and looks like we can form a 60s club here ... may this 60th birthday be the BEST one ever! A happy, happy birthday with lots of breath and a glorious crown surrounded by all the love that can fill you overflowingly for many more years to come! You are a gorgeous 60! You shine more beautiful from the inside out and I'd never guess that shining light and smile looks that age or that a cake for you might explode with so much humor, wit, wisdom and Godly insights. As difficult as this year may be, I pray that whatever comes your way for this grand event, you will celebrate all the gems of Truth you shared here with Jesus Only You, knowing that all heaven is glowing and loving you even more, shedding a new bright star light of Fatherly love from above (doublefold) ... and I could not wish you any more than a fantastic birthday and another year of God's blessings for much more and better JOY! I need every word of this one! Soak and fill my being with God's wisdom as I too refocus! remember ... recall ... reminisce ... as God restores, renews, reignites, refines, and hopefully realigns some of that aging stuff ... why don't you come celebrate with me? (course, you have alot of time between this spring and this fall to choose) ... May you be so inspired and encouraged on your day as you have made this momentous mark in my life with such wonderful words of wisdom like these and every other blog post you pen. You are a simple delight and such a JOY to know! 60 looks good on you! :0)

    Here's one cake served with love! and Daisy the beagle too sings Happy, happy birthday with us to YOU! I'm sure Marty would love her! and then there's
    Copperhead too! All for you, my precious BFF, sister and friend!

    Much love, blessings and woo hoo wishes,
    (((hugs)))
    Peggy

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    Replies
    1. You do realize that each GOLD highlight is linked to a special video for you, right? click on the yellow - gold and see how old ... you don't feel anymore after you laugh your ... off. <><

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    2. The world is a better place since you entered it 60 years ago, so mark your birthday with a special day that celebrates YOU!!! !!! !!!
      !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!! !!!

      Read more at http://www.birthdaymessages.net/60th-birthday-wishes-2.html#mjrI77JE8G5MDgKJ.99

      Delete
  11. Love the pic, birthday girl! Welcome to the 60's. You're in good company! Let's call ourselves "Mature Women with Purpose"!!! Wishing you a wonderful birthday, complete with all the fanfare.

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  12. Sharon, congratulations on the birthday. Hope it is a happy and relaxing day. Yes, getting older has it challenges, changes, and chuckles - but it also has its rewards - among them courage, creativity, and conviction. I'll trade those for wrinkles and an ache or two any day of the week. :)
    And thanks for stopping by today and giving me a word of encouragement. Those have been in short supply recently and I treasure those that have come my way. Blessings to you ~ Marsha

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  13. I loved that picture of you! Happy Birthday, when that day comes. I've always loved birthday's and for a rather quiet person I too love the attention. :) And that liar...he is full of baloney and I just love how you conquered him here. I love coming here because you seem to ALWAYS make me smile and you share such good wisdom. A post I need to remember as those years add on. Much love you friend.

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  14. I love that picture of you!! You are such a chick!

    I love this whole post, and boy howdy is it timely. I liked the verse from Hebrews best.

    And since you will not share the actual date, I will just have to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY today. I might just come back and say it tomorrow too.

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  15. LOVE this! I was a wreck when I turned 30, I was pretty much ok with turning 40, and as for the rest - well, I'll let ya know - it keeps coming faster and faster! You could do what I did and just stop having birthdays. I don't feel older than 26, so I just refuse to acknowledge that I turn older year after year. Now we just have "Celebrate Beckey" day - that way I get to enjoy the fanfare, cake, etc without getting any older! ;0) Visiting from the link up.

    Beckey
    http://www.etsy.com/shop/queenbsbusywork
    http://reallyreallyrealhousewives.blogspot.com

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  16. Happy Birthday!

    Recently we had my sons birthday party a week after his birthday. He wouldn't say he was 3 until the party, even though we kept telling him he had already turned 3. I think I'm going to start using that. If I don't have a birthday party I haven't really aged!

    God does a purpose for you, for us all. As long as we have breathe God has a purposed for us here.

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  17. As I was reading and before you mentioned it, I was thinking, "But you have so much wisdom," and then you got there. You have so many gifts that get finer with time. I appreciate your wisdom, encouragement, and humor. You have a way of relating to others in a real and substantial way.

    And for the record, you don't look sixty! You should count your blessings that you haven't been beat up by an Arizona sun! Happy Birthday early!

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  18. Hey Sharon, just wanted you to know I appreciated the comment you left on my blog about blog buddies. However, it would not publish for some weird reason!! It just disappeared. But I did read it! Thank you for your friendship.

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  19. Happy Birthday dear Sharon! 60 is young. You can do so many things at 60 that you were not free to do at 20, 30, 40, and even 50. Cherish each day and keep learning and exploring. Work the puzzles and keep your mind alert. Days will go by quickly and when you reach 80 you can look back and be amazed at all you accomplished in the last 20 years. Thank you for sharing your true story with us here at "Tell Me a Story."

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  20. Stopping in from Michelle's, and with my 68th happening in early February and my 40-something son telling me "you know you're getting older," I decided just waking up and drawing a good breath in the morning meant I was just fine and the Lord still loved me enough to give me another day! LOL! I loved your list of Scriptures and other positives I found in your post. I think you're one classy lady who's just getting better all the time ... never mind those words that describe us something less than what we truly are as Daughters of the King!

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  21. 60 is the new 50, or maybe even 40!! Happy Birthday on whichever day it actually is. I don't know whether to sing Happy Birthday or the Westmont Warrior fight song!! You look so great, and I predict it's going to be a banner year!! :)

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  22. Sharon, I hope you enjoy a wonderful birthday and many many more my friend. Great reflections you shared

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  23. You've said it well, friend. And yes, I do think God enjoys are slowing down years; perhaps we've learned the value of just resting in/with him. Happy Birthday, and if I were closer, I'd help you with those candles.

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  24. Happy Birthday, Sharon. I turn 55 later this year. It is crazy. Where did the time go? Oh well, I just keep looking forward to what the Lord has for me. God bless you

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  25. I love it! Happy Birthday - and may you wear it like a crown of beauty and grace! I admire a woman who celebrates each year - because I believe each year gets better and better because I become closer and closer to Him! Sure do love your attitude! You can blow them ALL out - who said you had to do it all at once!!!!

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  26. My how I needed your words today. Thank you so much, Sharon. I'm going to re-read and absorb all this truth.

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  27. Happy Birthday, Sharon. I love this post and the humor you add to it. So true about the lies Satan punches us with. But yes, you still have a story to tell and a Savior to share!

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  28. I am visiting from The Weekend Brew this morning. Can I just say, I truly loved reading this post! Although I have not yet hit the milestone you share about, I have been thinking about the aging process in my own life. In recent days, I must admit, it has gotten me down. "Down" is a feeling I am not accustomed to in my life nor am I liking the feeling. In reading your words, this is what hit me - as long as we are drawing breath, we have a reason to be here, our lives have purpose. When we no longer have purpose to fulfill, God will take us home. So let us both embrace where we are in life & get on with it. Let's bring Him some glory in the days ahead. Thank you for your transparency. I needed to read it today. Blessings!
    Oh & HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

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  29. Happy, happy birthday, friend! May you have the breath to blow out those candles and then some! Breath to proclaim the glorious of God in the earth - the Joy of Jesus in your life and His greater purpose in the lives of everyone you meet. May you know all good things and beauty in blessings beyond measure this hallmark year. What a great photo you've shared at the end of such encouraging words to those of us in "mid-life" - though I trail you by a few. I'm letting my hair go all salt and pepper - no more coloring. Trying to be good with all the changes. Yeah - takes some getting used to, but so glad it's not a journey we make alone. We have the Lord and kindred spirits to skip along the paths of greater things year to year. Blessings!
    Kathy

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  30. Happy Birthday Sharon!!! I so agree with EVERYTHING you said, 30, 40, 50, and even 55 wasn't so bad. I don't like this one coming up as it is getting too close to 60...it just sounds old. I love all your reasons and Bible verses to embrace the aging process . . . even 60 (though I am not quite there yet).

    Love you!!

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  31. Happy Birthday! You LOOK great and feel great and you are blessed! Enjoy your special birthday! I'm older than you and can tell you right now...you'll love being in your 60s! It's the BEST! Have fun! Hugs, Diane

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  32. WhooHoo! Glad you thought to share your birthday bash with All Things Bright and Beautiful!! You are such a blessing in Blogland - many happy returns of the day!
    Joy!
    Kathy

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  33. Oh, Sharon. I love it! I love how you STIR your heart with the TRUTH of His Word. The older I get, the more I am having to do that, too! Happy almost (or already passed?) Birthday, sweet woman of God!

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"So [I] have been greatly encouraged in the midst of [my] troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. It gives [me] new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. How [I] thank God for you!" (1 Thessalonians 3:7-9)

Thanks for your comments - it is such a joy to be sharing my journey with friends like YOU!

(NOTE: Anonymous comments will be removed. Thank you for understanding.)