For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. Romans 12:3

A study just came out in Germany.

That study found out that old people don't like to read stories about old people. They like to read stories about young people. They especially like to read negative stories about young people.

That same study found out that young people don't like to read stories about old people either. They like to read about young people -- positive stories about young people.

From this information the German researchers decided that old people like those negative stories because it boosts their own self-esteem.

I guess that's one way of looking at the information which has been compiled.

Me, I think there might be a different explanation. I think older folks have seen a lot of life. They have seen the disappointments, the pains, the sorrows, and the hurts. They also know that while they have survived these things, younger folks are just beginning their struggles.

They read these stories because they want to know how things are going for the youngsters.

Now I know my interpretation of the facts is 180 degrees removed from those of the researchers, but my conclusion wasn't made without evidence.

When a teen starts to wander, I have seen the agonizing of the grandparents. When a grandchild is involved with the wrong crowd, I have heard the heartfelt prayers of grandma and grandpa. I have listened to the incredibly loving words of advice that come from those whose age has made them wiser and wonderfully understanding.

In short, I have seen the love of Christian grandparents.

It is a wonderful thing to see that kind of compassion. It can almost remind a person of the love Jesus has for us. Pained by our sin and desiring to do something about transgression's consequences, Jesus came to this world to offer Himself up as our Substitute. He did everything necessary so our future might be changed.

And that, my friends, is a most blessed thing. It is a thing for which we redeemed can give thanks.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, for seeing us in our sin and acting to save us, we praise You. Now may we do all we can to help those whose struggles in life are just beginning. This we pray in Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Isaiah 7-8    Acts 20:17-38

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