Prayers . . . for tough beginnings

HELP ME ACCEPT THE AGING PROCESS

Dear Lord, I am terrified of growing old.  I've come to understand how much elderly people suffer, and I want to escape that.  The gentle term "aches and pains" is just another way of saying "chronic pain bad enough to disturb sleep." I don't want pain, Lord.

I am terrified of dementia -- I don't want to become forgetful and confused.  I want my mind to remain sharp so I can recognize my children and loved ones.  If I am afflicted by dementia, however, and I begin to rant and rave, allow my spirit to remember you.

So often I've heard old people say they don't want to be a burden, but then they are.  I don't want my body to grow weak so my children have to care for me.  Please, Lord, help me to accept what you give me.  I know that you can spare me from this if it is your will.  If not, I ask you to strengthen my children for the task ahead.

I know aging and dying are a result of the curse.  You would never have chosen that for us.  Still, I have to go through it.  Help me to finish well.  I really want to keep my independence, but if that's not the path I am to follow, keep me from complaining.  Make me sweet and gentle.  Help me submit to you.  Mold my spirit, even as my body breaks down.  As my strength fails, give me enough energy to pray.  Through Christ, my stronghold. 

 Amen.

Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

 

2 Corinthians 4:16