Some people are morning people, and some definitely aren't, but like it or not, we all have to get through the morning and figure out the best way to start the day. And even if you aren’t a type-A schedule wielder, a morning routine can make sure you start the day well and with your eyes on God. Here are some morning routines for Christian seniors to try.
The Bible is full of inspirational figures who set wonderful examples for Christians of all ages, and their words and deeds are just as relevant to modern life as they were in Biblical times. The communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella empower seniors to live vibrant lives following lessons from the Bible. Below, you can find out more about five historical Bible figures who inspire seniors.
The psalms are widely read for encouragement thanks to their many uplifting verses. However, seniors of faith who dig deeper into the book's contents will find many psalms also contain enriching lessons that can help strengthen their personal walk with the Lord, including these examples.
One of the central messages of the Bible is the promise of God's forgiveness and eternal salvation. Just as God promises all Christians a fresh start, the New Year is the perfect time to set aside negativity and plan positive changes for the year ahead. For many Christians, an essential part of planning for the New Year is prioritizing their spiritual development. Below, you can find five simple ways to plan for a faithful New Year.
The nativity story is full of practical examples of Christian generosity and kindness. The innkeeper, who welcomed Mary and Joseph when everyone else turned them away, is an excellent example of Christmas goodwill in action. Contrasting the innkeeper's behavior with the jealousy and cruelty of Herod inspires many Christians during Advent. Below, you can find ideas for how to be an innkeeper and not a Herod this Christmastime.
Most people in the U.S. are familiar with the Thanksgiving holiday. Chances are if you ask one of your Bethesda neighbors about the first Thanksgiving, they can tell you how in 1621, after their first harvest in the new world, the Pilgrims and American Indians came together for a feast. Even your grandkids can tell you the reason for that long-ago feast was that they were celebrating and giving thanks for what they had been given. For many people, Thanksgiving is also a time for family, friends and celebration. However, it’s also a time for demonstrating faith. That's in part because the holiday is rooted in the idea of giving thanks to God for what we have.
As a faith-based community, we at Bethesda Senior Living Communities love to see our residents grow in their walk with God. And we know memorization is a powerful tool that seniors can use to help them further their knowledge of Scripture. The Bible teaches in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT) that: All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. This means when Christians take the time and effort needed to memorize Scripture, they gain the ability to draw upon its comfort and guidance instantly, regardless of whether they have access to a Bible at that moment or not. The benefits don't end there, however. Read on for four more reasons to memorize Scripture.
In faith-based communities like those under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella, you can find many ways to get closer to God. And since maintaining spiritual health is just as important as maintaining physical health, it's a good idea to explore these opportunities. This is one of the reasons our communities exist: to facilitate all manner of assistance both physically and spiritually. We want the residents of our communities to have energetic, fulfilled spiritual lives to go with their material ones. An excellent way to foster this level of vibrant spiritual growth is with the practice of mindfulness.
As autumn moves in, the changing season often brings on a time of reflection. The daylight hours grow shorter, the cooler weather sends people indoors to rest near fires or cuddle under blankets, and many people find they have a desire to read, learn new things or return to beloved hobbies. Perhaps, this seasonal spirit is a throwback to school days, when cooler weather meant returning to the classroom. Whatever reason for it, it can impact people of all ages, including adults in retirement. Whether you're living a vibrant lifestyle in an assisted living community or living in your existing home, if you're a senior of faith, a new devotional might be just the thing you need to spend a quality hour or so of each fall day with the Lord.
It's never too early to shop for the holidays, and given the off-and-on efficiency of shipping services during the COVID-19 pandemic, being prepared ahead of time may be an especially good idea this year. Loved ones with older relatives and friends in assisted living communities might wonder what would make a good gift this season — or for any special occasion. You also don't need to wait for a holiday or birthday to send someone a gift to show your love and appreciation for them. A small care package can be a great way to show an older adult that you're thinking about them.
