THIN SPACE
Confession
Prayer Hour this week is all about confession.
Each day at 12 midday, we’re going to be seeking God’s forgiveness for huge areas in our lives and in our communities where we have discriminated, where we have abused, where we have shown prejudice.
Today we’re dealing with the sin of Ageism (towards the elderly)
Ageism is defined as discrimination or unfair treatment based on a persons age. This can happen with all ages but today we are going to focus on the elderly. In the UK there is a law called the Equality Act that protects many people from discrimination, whether that is direct, indirect, harassment or victimisation, however many people particularly the elderly, experience this regularly.
Examples of Ageism
Loosing a job because of your age
Being refused insurance or a credit card based on your age
Receiving a lower quality service (i.e in shops or restaurants)
Being refused a referral from a Doctor based on your age
Being refused membership to a club
The media representing the elderly in a bad light
What does the bible say?
God doesn't have favourites
(Romans 2:11)
Grey hair is a crown of splendour; it is attained in the way of righteousness
(Proverbs 16:31)
Treat older men and women as fathers and mothers
(1 Timothy 5:1–2)
Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord.
(Leviticus 19:32)
To learn from a righteous elderly person is an honour and a privilege. Ageism may be increasing in our culture as beauty, youth, and worldliness are prized, but we can fight against it and stand as an example through our own respect and care for people of any age.
It is time pray
For forgiveness - The times we may have played our part directly or indirectly
For Healing - For those who are damaged by being treated differently due to their age
For Change - That we see a change in our culture, churches and attitudes towards those who are older than us
Worship
Lord I Come To You - CLICK HERE