In 1968 a scientist discovered a six-hundred-year-old necklace in a Native American grave. It was made up of seeds that had been strung together. He planted one of those seeds, and guess what happened: it sprouted and grew! Although the seed had been dormant for six hundred years, it still had the potential for life. And just like the seed, no matter what stage of life or what part of our faith journey we’re in, we have so much potential that God can use.

Even if we’ve been Christians for a while, but haven’t been as committed as we should be, it’s not too late to be fruitful for God. Even if we’ve neglected Him or been spiritually lukewarm, He won’t turn us away when we decide to step up and work for Him wholeheartedly. ‘The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lord is upright; he is my Rock”’ (Psalm 92:12-15 NIV).

A palm tree produces its greatest harvest of fruit in its final years. It’s never too late to do our best work for God. ‘For as the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands.’ Even when we accomplish the purpose God’s blessed us with, it doesn’t mean we’ve outlived our usefulness. He’ll always have something else we can do for His kingdom, and a new way for us to make a mark for Him in this world.

What Now?

Do you know an older person who may be lonely and could use a word of encouragement? If you can, make some time to chat with them and pray for them. Let them know that they’re still loved and valued.