Living with Purpose in a Worn-Out Body

“Why am I still here? Why does God require such prolonged suffering?” Frailty, dependence and constant pain can lead to a spiritual hopelessness in this increasingly “gray” society. While we’re inspired by occasional news about an extraordinary centenarian who swims every day, it’s more common to grieve and wonder as loved ones grow feeble. With compassion and honesty, Buchanan gives voice to the those living an assisted life. Through the painful-to-consider feelings of loss, self pity, resignation and loneliness, she leads caregivers and those in their care to see that living with purpose in old age is an extension of the challenges lived all along: learning to offer one’s will to God’s, trusting God’s grace and continuing to respond with the joy and fortitude of faith. Buchanan fosters empathy for and expresses the deepest concerns of the frail elderly without tap-dancing around the tough issues. Forty-two short, comforting devotionals offer much-needed spiritual encouragement to the once-vibrant who now cope with daily limitations and failing health. The devotions are written in the first person, allowing readers to speak directly to God about the pills they take, the walkers they need to be mobile, the ambulances that take away their friends. Supporting scriptures from the New Testament and Psalms are included with each meditation. Buchanan writes to the experiences of lifelong Christians as well as elderly non-believers who are thinking anew about God. “Though we may experience fear and discouragement, this book invites us to remember that God’s energies are at work silently but powerfully throughout all of life,” writes one reviewer. LIVING WITH PURPOSE IN A WORN-OUT BODY is elder-friendly: large-print text and wide margins for easier handling by arthritic hands. Help someone you love find a reason and way to live out God’s purpose in spite of their limitations.