“My son, take care of your father when he is old; Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him.”
Sirach 3:12-13
During visits to the elderly in nursing homes or their place of living, I have often felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness and isolation. When speaking to the elderly, during my visits, many of them open up about feeling this way. Feeling like they are obsolete, or nobody needs them anymore. Feelings of abandonment by family and friends. I believe, this is why Pope Francis initiated the “World Day For Grandparents and Elderly.”
The elderly have so much to offer us; like preserving one’s roots, passing on the faith to the young, and caring for the little ones. Pope Francis says, “There is no retirement age from the work of proclaiming the Gospel and handing down traditions to one’s grandchildren.” Sirach reminds us, “Take care of your father when he is old; Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him.” The elderly are still our brothers and sisters, who deserve respect and dignity. Even if they struggle with mental capacity or need more help, remember, they took care of us, when we couldn’t do it ourselves. Now it’s our turn to repay them. Go, therefore, visit the elderly, call your grandparents or parents, and make them feel wanted and loved.
How is God asking me to help the elderly? Is it through prayer, visits, a phone call, or maybe a Facebook message?
Lord, give us the strength to take care of the elderly and give us the patience to do so with love.
Today’s Reflection is by:
Fr. Izzie Hernandez
Did you know...
Fr. Israel “Izzie” Hernandez is a newly ordained priest for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. He currently serves as Parochial Vicar at St. Stephen’s in Riverview. His home parish is Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes. He loves sports and is a fan of the Bucs, Bolts, Rays, Bulls, and Magic.
