Gathering Three

Older And Younger

Bridging the Generations

Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers.

I Timothy 5:1-2a

Harrison Ford is 80 years old. This summer he is starring in another Indiana Jones movie. Isn’t he getting too old for this? Will a younger audience show up for this blockbuster or will theaters only cater to those with a senior discount?

Social experts tell us that each generation is distinct in its personality and values. From Boomers to Generation Z, each age group hammers out its own codes of conduct and morality. Unfortunately, this can create complaints between the young and the old. “Elderly people drive too slowly and don’t understand technology.” “Younger people never look up from their phones and seem entitled.”

Churches can reflect this divide. There are “70/70 congregations.” Those are churches with 70 people who are all 70 years old. Those church doors will be closing soon unless they can cross the generation gap. What can we do to relate to those who appear so generationally distant from us?

The Golden Rule applies. It is always age appropriate. Once again, the Bible teaches that respect and courtesy go a long way toward establishing real relationships. Honoring a seasoned adult for their life journey or recognizing the potential in a younger friend can build a positive bridge across the ages.

You are somewhere on the spectrum from diapers to Depends, which means you can learn from those who are further along life’s road. You will also be a model of Christ-like love and behavior to those following behind you. When you treat people like family, you see grandpa, sister, granddaughter, or mom, and extend the personal attention and care no matter their age. If we all have this golden attitude, we will enjoy intergenerational community and promote Christian purity and faith.