Life in all its fullness

Loneliness is a difficulty faced by people of all ages, but older people in the UK are at increased risk of social isolation, with 11% reporting that they speak with friends, family or neighbours less than once a month (according to Age UK, 2015). With greater age may come greater issues with health and mobility, and older people, along with children, are identified as particularly vulnerable in situations of poverty, war, and humanitarian crisis.

In Zechariah’s prophetic vision of a restored and redeemed community of God’s people, there is no more isolation or loneliness. The streets are filled with the sounds of games and chatter; others sit quietly in companionable peace. Children too, are safe to play on the streets, no longer afraid of violence, or forced into work to make the family ends meet.

In other words, each generation is honoured, safe, and supported to flourish. This vision of life in all its fullness, at every age and stage, is at the heart of Christian Aid’s work in communities across the world.

God who is ever ancient, ever new: thank you for the gift of each generation, and that all are treasured and loved in your kingdom. Help me to see the ways in which older and younger people in particular are marginalised and made vulnerable, and to play my part in restoring dignity and hope. Amen.