David Richardson

Pictured above is a great group of Senior Adults here at First Baptist of Sebring.  Kneeling on the front row in the white coat is David Thomas, our Minister of Music and Senior Adults.  I am left of him in a blue coat.

We have a large group of Seniors around here in Sebring, and I enjoy their company.  They have fascinating stories and rich wisdom.  Our church is a blessed by their presence and efforts.

Here are some observations I’ve made on Seniors over my 13 years in pastoral ministry:

[1]  Seniors tend to be very reliable.  Usually, the church can count on them to show up and lend a hand.

[2]  Seniors have a valuable perspective that comes from years of experience.  They have gone through things that a lot of us young adults have not.  This means they can offer helpful insight.

[3]  Seniors want to be valued.  They appreciate people giving them time and attention.  Even though some of them may not have that youthful vigor they once possessed, they still are human beings that want to be loved and appreciated like the rest of us.

[4]  Seniors treasure relationships.  Often times, younger folks are tempted to devote all of their time to jobs, money, and activities.  Seniors seem to value loving on children, and enjoying friendly conversations with family and friends.  Through their example, they teach us to slow down and care about others.

[5]  Each day, all of us get one step closer to becoming Senior Adults ourselves.  Perhaps we younger people would be wise to treat Seniors the same way we want to be treated when we become Seniors.  We will want people to be caring and patient towards us, so shouldn’t we be that way towards them?  I think so.

Thanks, Senior Adults, for all that you do!   I appreciate you.