My World is Getting Smaller

August 31, 2025
 
Reflections from the Heart of Allan Redenius
My world feels like it is getting smaller.  My oldest grandson, Micah, just left for college and now there is an empty chair at the table.  My second grandson, Noah, is entering eighth grade and I realize that soon he too will be off to make a life for himself.  My old friends seem to be dying off faster than new friends come into my life.  Indeed, my circle seems to be getting smaller.
 
I am reminded of a lady who recently celebrated her 95th birthday.  Instead of being joyful in her long life, she was melancholy, and in fact, somewhat depressed.  I asked her, “Do you feel this way because you have outlived all of your friends and relatives and are now lonely?”  Her answer was, “Bingo!”  She too felt the tightness of the circle closing in around her.  Shortly after our visit, she died.  My circle just got even a little smaller.
 
What I've noticed about life is that over the years there are “phases,” through which we pass.  In our 20’s, everything is hunky-dory, and life is uncomplicated.  You begin to build your network and circle of friends.  In your 30’s and early 40’s, you begin to see some of those friends go through difficulties in life--divorce, discontentment, and other issues that you didn't anticipate in your 20’s.  In your 40’s, a few of your friends get sick and might even die.  About then you begin to contemplate your own longevity.  In your 50’s, things begin to level off.  Now at 60, you wonder how this happened so fast.  In your 70’s, your friends are beginning to die off in what seems like rapid succession.
 
That's where I'm at, in my 70’s.  Long standing friends and relatives are beginning to die.  My circle, sad to admit, is getting smaller.
 
What am I to do?  I know!  I will push back on the ever-tightening circle.  I am now taking applications for new friends. 😊 Although, I truly only need one friend, Jesus.  Honestly, if Jesus is on the inside of my circle, I know everything will be just fine.  Where is the Lord in your circle, on the inside or on the outside?  When you come to die, it is better for you that Jesus is on the inside, than for you to keep Him on the outside and wish at the last moment that He was on the inside. 
 
Don't forget to send in your friendship application!  Space is unlimited.  😊
Pastor Allan
 
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