by Pastor Rodney Tilley
Reading my junkmail and editing the trash, I came across an advertisement that admonished one to join the “AARP,” that respected bastion of mobility chairs and vacation homes in Florida, at least that is what it seemed to me. That is, until I read, that at my age I too could join. Me? Rodney? An AARP member?
I know that I am over 60, but I could not believe it, for now I had become one of “them.” Those elderly persons with RVs and mediplanners, whistling old tunes, and making ever rotating trips to the doctor. But I am there and this should not be, but the ad did go on to explain that along with age, certain perks were available. As a member I could get discounted airline tickets, free checking, McDonald’s coffee, and a host of other nifty advantages that others do not get. I found that the “them” did not look so bad, and today I am thinking of taking the plunge and becoming a member.
But as a pastor, there is another “them” that I hear a lot about. Some say if I go to church, I will become like “them” – that fanatical, song-singing, Bible toting, out of touch group of Christians that talk of love and forgiveness, and at this time of year, “Peace and Goodwill Toward Men.” But if you look you will find that there is a lot of “perks” in this group as well. The “them” have peace with their creator, have purpose in their lives, have friends that care, and when they play Monopoly, they always get the “Get out of Hell Free” card.
In fact, there are so many perks that Jesus promised us, “life, life in all its fullness.” (John 10:10). There is life past 60, 70, or 80, or to be quite frank, there is eternal life. I have found that becoming one of “them” is one of life’s hidden pleasures.
Membership does cost however, and the decision is yours, but who would not want to miss all that free stuff: forgiveness of sin, peace of mind, laughter of heart, and even a cane. Remember the scripture about the rod and staff comforting us…Psalms 23. Yeah, for real, we do get a cane to help us on the road. So join today the American Association of Redeemed People and live life now and in the here after.
For more information on eternal life and getting old, call Pastor Tilley at 432-207-0015.
