Fountain of Life

Psalm 36:6-9

Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,

    your justice like the great deep.

    You, LORD, preserve both people and animals.

How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!

    People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. 

They feast on the abundance of your house;

    you give them drink from your river of delights.

For with you is the fountain of life;

    in your light we see light. 

In school, our history teacher taught about Ponce de Leon, an explorer who traveled to Florida and supposedly discovered the legendary Fountain of Youth. It’s told that people would drink from the fountain and regain their youthfulness. Since that tale was told, people have searched for ways to stay youthful and slow down the aging process. From Botox to diet mania, folks work at looking and feeling younger. Being healthy, feeling better, and looking good are positives, but they’re only a small part of life.

Being closer to seventy than I’ve ever been, I’m happy to claim my age when I attend my grandkids’ sporting events. I usually get a discount or get in for free. My white hair doesn’t bother me, and I’m grateful I can participate in life as much as I do. 

I don’t find a fountain of youth in the Bible, but in Psalm 36, the writer says God has a fountain of life. The total life experience sounds good and is something I want to take part in. God gives me the freedom to dive into life and see what He has in store. 

Jesus Christ has lifted the bonds of worry and guilt and given me enthusiasm for his purpose. He’s gifted his children with grace, and through his light, I see the light in life. I don’t need a fountain of youth to appreciate and enjoy my relationship with Jesus. I’m thankful I can take refuge in the Lord.

Whatever age you are—embrace God’s fountain of life.