2 Corinthians 4:16 – Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (NIV)

I am well past the years when I can take pride in physical beauty. (In fact, I was never beautiful, but looking back on earlier pictures, I looked better than I gave myself credit for, at earlier stages of life.) I am thankful that I've worked to improve my mind and spirit. I find that people who have tried to improve the mind and spirit handle aging better.

Romans 12:2 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV)

Recently, I joined a water aerobics class made up of senior citizens, all with aches and pains of some kind. I had serious reservations about joining this class. I was shy about putting on a bathing suit at my age. I was terrified of water, and of getting my head under water. Realizing the others were all in the same stage of life as I was, complete with aches, pains, and water phobia, I joined the class.

It was the best move I've made in years. For one thing, it is fun, and the people are nice. I don't see sagging bodies and wrinkled flesh, I see beautiful people. I don't feel intimidated as I put on my bathing suit and join the group. I feel accepted and a part of the group. This is the way God sees us — for what we are on the inside, not our outward appearances.

Prayer: Lord, look on our hearts, not our wrinkled and deteriorating bodies. Give us the vision to see the person within, including ourselves. Amen.

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