If a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭5‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Abandonment of the elderly is widespread in our nation yet nearly unheard of in so many others.

The fact there even exists scriptural instruction on the topic confirms the practice is nothing new.

Years of helping seniors to thrive and survive has often left this warm heart cold and bitter.

Families deliver mom, dad or grandma like a package on the doorstep of assisted living then race home never to be seen nor heard from again.

If you’ve followed me any length of time you’ve read my stories where I was their only ‘family’ present for Thanksgivings, birthdays, and funerals.

I’ve tracked down distant family members more times than I care to enumerate the unanswered emails and disconnected phone numbers of kin.

I’m proud to work with a team who cares and goes the extra mile for a cohort so close to my heart yet so far from those who should.

If you’re a follower of Christ and have yet neglected to fulfill this clear command, Lord have mercy on you at the hour of His return.

Likewise, if you have learned the value of our elders and sacrifice some things in your own present life to demonstrate it, riches and rewards await you.

Sorry for the rant, but I hope when you’re old, feeble, or infirmed, you get back what you have given when the trumpet sounds.