My older brothers and sisters:
"Even if you live seventy years, and eighty more robust, most are fatigue inútilporque pass quickly and fly " (Ps 90 [89], 10)
1. Seventy were many years in time when the Psalmist wrote these words, and few people lived beyond today, thanks to medical progress and improved social and economic conditions in many regions of the world, life expectancy has increased significantly. However, it remains true that the years pass quickly, and the gift of life, despite the fatigue and pain, is too beautiful and precious for us to grow tired of it.
have felt the desire, when I was too old to put myself in conversation with you. I do, above all, giving thanks to God for the gifts and opportunities which until now has given me in abundance. I recall the stages of my life, that is intertwined with the history of much of this century come to mind the faces of countless people, some of them particularly dear: they remind me of ordinary and extraordinary events, happy moments and episodes marked by suffering. But above all else, provident and merciful hand of God the Father, who "takes care of the best all that is" 1 and "if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us" (1 Jn 5, 14 .) To Him I turn with the Psalmist: "My God, you have taught me from my youth, and to this day your wondrous deeds now in the old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, until your arm to describe the new generation phone prowess and your victories exalted "(Ps 71 [70], 17-18).
My thoughts turn with affection to all of you, dear elderly people of any language or culture. I am writing this letter in the year the Organization United Nations, with good reason, wanted to dedicate to the elderly to call the attention of society on the situation of those who, by the weight of age, often have to face many difficult problems.
The Pontifical Council for Lay has offered some helpful guidelines for reflection on this subject.2 With this letter I wish simply to express my spiritual closeness to the mood of those who, year after year, feel grow into it a deepening understanding of this phase of life and therefore realizes the need for closer contact with their peers, to try things we have in common, putting it all under the eyes of God, who embraces us with His love and sustains us and leads us by his providence.
2. Dear brothers and sisters, at our age it is natural to revisit the past to attempt a sort of balance. This retrospective gaze makes a more serene and objective of the people we met and of the events along the road. The passage of time blurs the features of events and softens their painful side. Unfortunately, the existence of each one there is ample and tribulations. Sometimes it's problems and suffering sorely test the resistance psychophysics and perhaps even shake our faith itself. However, experience shows that with the grace of God, the daily difficulties often contribute to the maturity of the people, tempering his character.
reflection dominated, over single events is referred to the time which elapses inexorable. "Time flies irretrievably, as the ancient poet latino.3 Man is immersed in time: he is born, lives and dies. With the birth date is set, the first of its life, and death another, the last. Is the alpha and omega, the beginning and end of his earthly existence, as stressed by the Christian tradition to carve these letters of the Greek alphabet on tombstones.
However, although the existence of each of us is limited and fragile, we are comforted by the thought that, by the spiritual soul will survive beyond death. Moreover, faith opens us to a "hope does not disappoint (cf. Rom 5, 5), indicating the prospect of the final resurrection. Therefore the Church at the Easter Vigil uses the same letters in reference to the living Christ, yesterday, today and always: He is "the beginning and end, Alpha and Omega. His is the time and eternity" .4 The human existence, although subject to time, is set by Christ on the horizon of immortality. He "a man among men, to join the beginning to the end, that is, man to God" .5
3. speaking to the elderly, I know I talk to people and people who have made a long journey (cf. Wis 4, 13). I talk to my age, I find it easy, therefore, an analogy from my personal experience. Our lives, dear brothers and sisters, has been recorded by Providence in the twentieth century, which has been a complex legacy of the past and has witnessed many extraordinary events.
Like so many other times in history, our century has lights and shadows. Not all has been bleak. There are many positives that have been counterbalanced the negative and the latter have emerged as a beneficial reaction of the collective consciousness. However, it is true, and would be both unjust and dangerous to forget-that have produced unprecedented sufferings have affected the lives of millions and millions of people. Just think of the conflicts in different continents as a result of territorial disputes between States or hatred between different ethnic groups. Nor should consider less severe conditions of extreme poverty afflicting broad social sectors in the South, the shameful phenomenon of racial discrimination and the systematic violation of human rights in many countries. And finally, what of the great global conflicts?
only the first part of the century there were two, on a scale hitherto unknown for the deaths and destruction wrought. The First World War claimed the lives of millions of soldiers and civilians, cutting off so many human lives in adolescence or even childhood. And what about the second world war? Broke out after a few years of relative peace in the world, especially in Europe, and was more tragic than the first, with enormous consequences for nations and continents. It was war, an unprecedented explosion of hatred, which struck brutally even against defenseless civilians and destroyed entire generations. Was incalculable toll paid on various fronts to the madness of war and the horrific slaughter which took place in the extermination camps, authentic Golgothas of contemporary times.
For many years, in the second half of the century, has lived the nightmare of the Cold War, that is, the confrontation between the two great opposing ideological blocs, East and West, with an unbridled arms race and the constant threat of atomic war capable of destroying humanity entera.6 Thankfully, this dark page of history has ended with the fall in Europe oppressive totalitarian regimes as a result of peaceful protest, which has the weapons of truth and justicia.7 has begun a difficult but fruitful process of dialogue and reconciliation aimed at creating a more peaceful coexistence and solidarity among peoples.
However, too many nations are still very far from enjoying the benefits of peace and freedom. In recent months, the violent conflict in the Balkans, which in previous years had been the scene of a terrible war of ethnic, has attracted a great commotion has shed more blood, further destruction and new hatreds are fueled . Now, when finally the clash of arms has subsided, we began to think of reconstruction in the new millennium approaches. But, meanwhile, continue to spread on other continents numerous outbreaks of war, massacres and violence sometimes too soon forgotten by the world press.
4. Although these memories and these painful situations sadden us, can not forget that our century has seen the emergence of many positive, which are at the same time, reasons for hope for the third millennium. Thus, it has increased, albeit amid numerous inconsistencies, especially in regard to respect for the life of every human being the consciousness of universal human rights, proclaimed in solemn and binding declarations of peoples.
has also been developed sense of right of peoples to self-government within the framework of national and international relations inspired by an appreciation of cultural identities and at the same time, respect for minorities. The fall of totalitarian systems, such as Eastern Europe has done better and more universally perceive the value of democracy and free markets, although the great challenge of combining freedom and social justice.
also be considered a great gift of God that religions are trying, with increasing determination, a dialogue allowing them to be a fundamental factor of peace and unity to the world.
Nor must we forget that a shared awareness increases due recognition to the dignity of women. Undoubtedly, there is still a long way to go, but it has paved the way forward. It is also reason to hope the communications boom, aided by technology current can exceed the limits, making us feel citizens of the world.
Another important area that has matured is the new ecological awareness, which deserves encouragement. Another source of hope is the great advances in medicine and applied sciences to human welfare.
Thus, there are many reasons why we should thank God. Nevertheless, the end of this century has immense potential for peace and progress. In the same trials that our generation has passed there comes a light capable of illuminating the years of our age. This confirms a principle central to the Christian tradition: "The trials not only destroy hope, but its underlying ".8
Therefore, while the century and millennium are coming to an end and hinted at the dawn of a new era for humanity, it is important to us stop to meditate on the reality of time passing quickly, not to resign ourselves to an inexorable fate, but to fully appreciate the years we have left to live.
5 . What is old age? It is sometimes spoken of as the autumn of life, so Cicero 9 -, by analogy with the seasons and the succession cycles of nature. Suffice it to say throughout the year changes to the landscape in the mountains and the plains, in meadows, valleys and forests, trees and plants. There is a great similarity between the bio-rhythms and cycles of nature, which we are a part.
At the same time, however, man is distinguished from all other realities around him because he is a person. Made in the image and likeness of God, is conscious and responsible. Still, also in its spiritual dimension, he experiences the succession of different phases, equally fleeting. Saint Ephrem the Syrian liked to compare life on the fingers of one hand, either to demonstrate The fingers are longer than a span, to indicate that each stage of life, like each finger has a peculiar feature, and "the fingers represent the five steps by which man advances" .10
and children and youth are the times in which human beings are formed and is projected towards the future and, aware of its capabilities, makes plans for adulthood, old age has its advantages because, as Saint Jerome observes, with the quieting of the passions, "increases wisdom, and gives advice mature" .11 In a sense, is the season for that wisdom which generally comes from experience, because "time is a great teacher" .12 It is well known prayer of the Psalmist: "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain wisdom of heart" (Ps 90 [89], 12 .)
6. Youth and black hair, vanity, "says Ecclesiastes (11, 10). The Bible did not attempt to call attention to the fleeting nature of life and time passing inexorably, sometimes with a gritty realism: "Vanity of vanities! [...] Vanity of vanities, all is vanity!" (Qo 1, 2). Who does not know this stern warning of the ancient Sage? We, the elderly, especially us, taught by experience, we understand very well. However
such wry realism, Scripture maintains a very positive view of the value of life. The man is a being created in the image of God "(cf. Gn 1, 26) and each age has its beauty and its tasks. Moreover, the word of God shows great respect for the elderly, to the point that longevity is interpreted as a sign of divine favor (cf. Gn 11, 10-32). With Abraham, which highlights the privilege of old age, that benevolence becomes a promise: "From I will make you a great nation and bless you. Thy name, and be thou a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. For you will bless all the families of the earth "(Gn 12: 2-3). Next to him is Sarah, a woman who saw his own aging body, yet experiences in limiting meat and wilted, the power God who makes human failure. Moses is an old man when God entrusted the mission to leave Egypt to the chosen people. The great deeds on behalf of Israel by the Lord's command not done in his youth but in years. Examples of elders, I would cite the figure of Tobias, who, with humility and courage, you agree to observe the law of God, to help the needy and blindness endure patiently until finally undergoing surgery healing angel of God (cf. Tb 3, 16-17); also Eleazar, whose martyrdom is a witness of exceptional generosity and strength (cf. 2 Mac 6, 18-31).
7. The New Testament, filled with the light of Christ, we also contains eloquent elders. The Gospel of Luke begins by introducing a married couple "advanced age" (1, 7), Elizabeth and Zechariah, the parents of John the Baptist. To them the mercy of the Lord (cf. Lk 1, 5-25. 39-79) Zechariah, an old man, he announces the birth of a child. He himself makes: "I am old and my wife well stricken in age" (Lk 1, 18). During the visit of Mary, her elderly cousin Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims: "Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb" (Lk 1, 42). At birth, John the Baptist, Zechariah proclaims the hymn Benedictus. Here is a wonderful elderly couple, animated by a deep spirit of prayer.
In the temple of Jerusalem, Mary and Joseph, who had brought Jesus to offer the Lord or, rather, to redeem the firstborn according to law, meet the aged Simeon, who had long awaited the coming of the Messiah. Taking the child in his arms, Simeon praised God and sang the Nunc dimitis: "Lord, now you can, as you say, let your servant depart in peace ..." (Lk 2, 29).
With him find Anna, a widow of eighty-four, a frequent visitor to the Temple and had at that time the joy of seeing Jesus. The Evangelist tells us that she began to praise God, "and spoke of him to all who looked for redemption in Jerusalem" (Lk 2, 38).
Elder Nicodemus, a notable member of the Sanhedrin, who visited Jesus by night to avoid being seen. The Divine Master will reveal that the Son of God is come to save the world (cf. Jn 3, 1-21). We find Nicodemus at the time of Christ's burial, when, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, overcomes his fear and shows himself a disciple of the Crucified (cf. Jn 19, 38-40). What evidence so comforting! We remember how the Lord, at any age, ask everyone to contribute their own talents. The service of the Gospel is not a question of age!
And what about the old Peter, called to bear witness to their faith with martyrdom? One day, Jesus had said: "When you were young you girded yourself and walked where you wanted, but when you are old, stretch out your hands and another will gird you and carry you where you do not want "(Jn 21, 18). As the Successor of Peter, those words affected me very directly and make me feel deeply the need to move your hands toward Christ, obedience to his command: "Follow me" (Jn 21, 19).
8. Psalm 92 [91], and synthesizing the splendid images of elderly found in the Bible, proclaims: "The righteous will grow like a palm tree, will rise like a cedar of Lebanon, [...] In old age will continue to bear fruit and green, to proclaim that the Lord is righteous "(13, 15-16). The Apostle Paul, echoing the Psalmist, wrote in the letter to Titus:" The older men be temperate, serious, sensible, sound in faith, in charity, patience in suffering, that the elderly are also in his demeanor as befits the saints [...]; to teach young women to love their husbands and their children "(2, 2-5 ).
Thus, in the light of education and according to the terminology of the Bible, old age is presented as a "favorable time" for the culmination of human existence and is part of divine plan for every man, as that point in life where everything comes together, thus allowing better understanding of the meaning of life and achieve the "wisdom of heart." "The venerable old age," warns the book of Wisdom, "is not one of the many days and is measured by the number of years, the true man is graying for prudence, and old age, a sinless life" (4, 8-9). Is the final stage of human maturity, while expression of the divine blessing.
9. In the past we had a great respect for the elderly. In this regard, the Latin poet Ovid wrote: "At one time, had a great reverence for the hoary head ".13 Centuries ago, the Greek poet Phocylides admonished:" Respect gray hair: give to the wise old man the same respect that you give your father ".14
If we stop to consider the current situation, we see that among some peoples old age is esteemed and valued in others, however, is much less because of a mentality which gives priority to immediate human usefulness and productivity of man. Because of this attitude, the so-called third and fourth age is often underestimated, and the elderly themselves are led to wonder whether their lives are still worthwhile.
is reached even with growing insistence propose euthanasia as a solution for difficult situations. Unfortunately, the concept of euthanasia has lost in recent years for many people the sense of horror that arises naturally in those sensitive to respect for life. Certainly it can happen that, in cases of serious illness, unbearable suffering, the sick are tempted to despair, and their loved ones or those who care, feel compelled by a misguided compassion to consider reasonable solution as a "gentle death." In this regard, it should be noted that the moral law allows for the waiver of the so-called "cruelty treatment, "requiring only those priests who are part of normal medical care. But that is very different from euthanasia, understood as directly causing death. Beyond the intentions and circumstances, euthanasia is still something intrinsically wrong, a violation of divine law, an offense to the dignity humana.15
10. is an urgent need to recover a correct perspective from which one has to consider life as a whole. This perspective is eternity, that life is a meaningful preparation in each of its phases. Old age too has a role to play in the process of gradual maturing along the path to eternity. This maturity benefit the larger society of which the old part.
help elders to see human affairs with greater wisdom, because the vicissitudes of life have brought them knowledge and maturity. They are the repositories of collective memory and thus the privileged interpreters of that body of ideals and common values \u200b\u200bwhich support and guide social life. Excluding them is to reject the past, which has its roots to the present, on behalf of a modernity without memory. The elderly, because of their mature experience, are able to offer young people precious advice and guidance.
From this perspective, aspects of human frailty, related in a more visible with the elderly, are a call to the mutual dependence and the necessary solidarity that unites the different generations, because every person needs the other and is enriched with the gifts and charisms of all.
eloquent in this regard are the reflections of a poet dear, who writes: "There is eternal only the future, not only! ... Yes, well past the age of eternity: it already has happened, come back today as before ... will return, but, as Idea, as he will not. "16
11. Why, then, do not continue to give the elderly the respect so valued in the sound traditions of many cultures on every continent? For the peoples influenced by the Bible, reference has been, over the centuries, the commandment of the Decalogue: "Honor thy father and thy mother", a duty, moreover, universally recognized. The full and consistent implementation has not only been the love of children to parents, but also highlighted the strong link between generations. Where the provision is accepted and faithfully observed, the elderly know that they risk being considered a useless and troublesome burden.
The commandment teaches, moreover, to respect those who have preceded us and all the good they have done: "your father and your mother" indicate the past, the link between one generation and another, a condition that makes it possible existence of a people. In the two versions given by the Bible (cf. Ex 20, 2-17, Deuteronomy 5, 6-21), this divine commandment is the first in the second table, which deals with the duties of man to himself and to society. It is the only one that adds a promise: "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God will give you" (Ex 20, 12, cf. Dt 5, 16).
12. "Get up before the hoary head, and honor the face of old people" (Lv 19, 32). Honoring the elderly involves a threefold duty: welcoming them, helping them and assess their qualities. In many places this happens almost spontaneously, as long-standing custom. In others, especially in economically advanced nations, seems to be a reversal of trend to ensure that elderly people can grow old with dignity, without fear of being reduced to people who do not have anything. They must be convinced that it is typical of a fully human civilization shows respect and love for the elderly, because they feel, despite the weakening of the forces vital part of society. Cicero himself noted that "the weight of age is lighter for those who feel respected and loved by young people" .17
The human spirit, moreover, even aging of the body involved, in a sense remains forever young if oriented toward the eternal, this perennial youth is best experienced when the inner witness of a good conscience is joined attentive and grateful affection of loved ones. The man, then, as St. Gregory Nazianzen, "not grow old in spirit, accept the dissolution as the time set for the freedom. Sweetly cross into the beyond, where there is immature or old, but all are perfect in the spiritual age ".18
all familiar with examples of elderly amazingly youthful and vigorous in spirit. To whom is near, are encouraging with their words and comfort to the sample . It is hoped that the company fully appreciated the elderly, which in some regions of the world, I think especially in Africa, are rightly considered "living libraries" of wisdom, guardians of a priceless heritage of human and spiritual experiences. While true that a physical level are generally in need of help, it is also true that in his advanced age, can offer support to young people on their way overlook the horizon of life to test different ways.
While speaking of the elderly, I can not address to young people inviting them to be at his side. I urge you, dear young people, to do with love and generosity. Older people can give more than you can imagine. In this sense, the Book of Sirach: "Do not disregard what the old, they have learned from their parents" (8, 9); "Attend the meetings of the elders, what is wise?, join thyself to him "(6, 34), for" what it seems in the old wisdom! "(25, 5).
13. The Christian community can receive much from the serene presence of those who are elderly. I think particularly in evangelism: its efficacy depends primarily on operational efficiency. In many families, the grandchildren of the grandparents are the first education in the faith! But the beneficial contribution of the elderly can be extended to other fields. The Spirit acts as and where he wills, not infrequently human resources which have little in the eyes of the world. Many people find understanding and comfort in the elderly, lonely or ill, but able to instill courage by their loving advice, silent prayer, the witness of suffering borne with patient! Just as lower energy and reduced operational capabilities, these brothers and sisters are more valuable in the mysterious plan of Providence.
Also from this perspective, therefore, in addition to the obvious psychological need of the elderly themselves, the most natural place to spend one's old age is the environment where he feels "at home" among relatives, acquaintances and friends, where one can still make service. As the average lifespan continues and grows the number of elderly will become increasingly important to promote a culture of welcoming old and valued, not relegated to the sidelines. The ideal is still the elderly to remain in the family, the guarantee of effective social assistance for the growing needs that lead to age or illness. However, there are situations in which the same circumstances suggest or demand entry into "retirement homes" so that the elderly can enjoy the company of others and receive specialized care. Such institutions are indeed praiseworthy, and experience that they can provide a valuable service to the extent that inspired not only by organizational efficiency, but also by loving. Everything is easier, in this sense, establishing a relationship with each of the elderly residents by family, friends and parish communities to help them feel loved and still useful to society. In that regard, why not remember with admiration and gratitude to religious congregations and volunteer groups that are involved with special care just to care for the elderly, especially those poor, abandoned or in trouble?
Dear elderly friends who feel insecure because of ill health or other circumstances, I feel close to you affectionately. When God permits us to suffer because of illness, loneliness or other reasons associated with old age, he always gives us grace and strength to unite ourselves with greater love to the sacrifice of the Son and to share more fully in his plan of salvation. Let us be convinced: He is Father, a Father full of love and mercy! I think in particular to you, widows and widowers, who find yourselves alone in the last stretch of life in you and religious elders, who for years have faithfully served the cause of the Kingdom of heaven in you , dear brother priests and Bishops, who, for age limits, no longer have direct responsibility for pastoral ministry. The Church still needs you. She appreciates the services we can to provide in many fields apostolate, with your constant prayer, waiting on your advice born of experience, and enriched the evangelical testimony you give every day.
14. Naturally, over the years, get familiar to us the thought of "twilight of life." Reminds us, at least, the simple fact that the ranks of our family, friends and acquaintances is reduced: we realize that in many circumstances, for example, when we gather for family reunions, meetings con nuestros compañeros de la infancia, del colegio, de la universidad, del servicio militar, con nuestros compañeros del seminario... El límite entre la vida y la muerte recorre nuestras comunidades y se acerca a cada uno de nosotros inexorablemente. Si la vida es una peregrinación hacia la patria celestial, la ancianidad es el tiempo en el que más naturalmente se mira hacia umbral de la eternidad.
Sin embargo, también a nosotros, ancianos, nos cuesta resignarnos ante la perspectiva de este paso. En efecto, éste presenta, en la condición humana marcada por el pecado, una dimensión de oscuridad que necesariamente nos entristece y nos da miedo. En realidad, ¿cómo podría ser de otro way? Man is made for life, whereas death, as Scripture tells us from the first pages (cf. Gn 2-3) - was not God's original plan, but subtly entered through sin, result of "the devil's envy" (Wis 2, 24). We thus understand why, to this gloomy reality, man instinctively rebels. Significantly, in this sense that Jesus himself, "tempted in every way like us, except sin" (Heb 4, 15), have been scared to death: "Father, if possible, pass from me this cup "(Mt 26, 39). How can we forget his tears at the tomb of his friend Lazarus, despite that was about to resurrect it (cf. Jn 11, 35)?
Even when death is reasonably understandable from a biological standpoint, it is possible to experience it as something that is "natural." Contrasts with the deepest instincts of man. In this regard the Council said: "Before death, the riddle of human existence becomes most acute. The man not only tormented by pain and progressive deterioration of his body, but also, and more, for fear perpetual extinction ".19
certainly would not have pain relief if the death was total destruction, the end of everything. Therefore, death forces man to consider radical questions about the very meaning of life: what lies beyond the wall of the shadow of death? Is this the definitive end of life or is there something beyond it?
15. not lacking in human culture from ancient times until today, simplistic answers that limit the life we \u200b\u200blive on this earth. Even in the Old Testament, some observations suggest the Book of Ecclesiastes in old age as a building demolition and death as its total and definitive destruction (cf. 12, 1-7). But precisely in the light of these pessimistic, acquires greater importance filled perspective hope all is derived from Revelation, and especially the Gospel: God is not God of the dead, but alive "(Lk 20, 38). As stated by the apostle Paul, the God who gives life to the dead (cf. Rom 4, 17) will also give life to our mortal bodies (cf. ibid., 8, 11). And Jesus says of himself: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, will live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die" (Jn 11, 25-26).
Christ, having crossed the threshold of death, has revealed that there is life beyond this limit, in that "territory" uncharted which is eternity. He is the first witness of the life immortal, in human hope He reveals full of immortality. "While we are saddened by the certainty of death gives way to the promise of immortality" .20 With these words, which the liturgy offers believers and comfort in the hour of parting of a loved one, followed by a proclamation of hope "For the life of those who believe in you, Lord, not end, it becomes, and the body of our earthly dwelling gain an everlasting dwelling in heaven" .21 In Christ, death, tragic and disconcerting, is rescued and transformed to appear as a "sister" leading us into the arms of Padre.22
16. The Faith thus illuminates the mystery of death and brings serenity in old age, no longer considered and lived as passively waiting for a calamity, but as a promising approach to the goal of full maturity. These are years to live with a sense of trusting abandonment into the hands of God, provident and merciful Father; a period to be used creatively in order to deepen the spiritual life, through fervent prayer and commitment a dedication to the brothers in love.
why are all those social commendable that allow the elderly to continue their physical, intellectual or personal relationships, and to be useful, making available to others the same time, their own skills and experience. Thus, it preserves and enhances the taste of life, fundamental gift of God. Moreover, this love of life does not offset the desire for eternity, which grows within people a profound spiritual experience, as you taught us the life of the Saints.
The Gospel reminds us in this way, the words of the aged Simeon, who says he is ready to die once it has been held in his arms as the awaited Messiah, "Lord, now you can, as you say, let your servant depart in peace, for mine eyes have seen your salvation "(Lk 2, 29-30). The Apostle Paul felt torn on both sides, between the desire to live to proclaim the Gospel and the desire to "depart and be with Christ" (Phil 1, 23). St. Ignatius tells us that, while he was joyful to be martyred, hear within him the voice of the Holy Spirit as "water" live it welling up inside him and whispering the invitation: "Come to the Father" .23 The Examples could be multiplied. In no way overshadow the value of earthly life, which is beautiful despite the limitations and suffering, and must be lived to the end. But they remind us that it is not the ultimate value, so that, from a Christian perspective, the twilight of life on earth has the features characteristic of a "step" of a bridge from life to life, between the fragile and uncertain joy of this earth and the fullness of joy that the Lord reserves for his faithful servants: "Enter into the joy of your Lord! "(Mt 25, 21).
17. In this spirit, while I wish you, dear brothers and sisters elderly who live with serenity the years the Lord has granted each, I naturally desire to share fully with you my own feelings in this stage of my life after more than twenty years of ministry headquarters Peter and waiting for the third millennium and at the door. Despite the limitations that I have come out with age, I continue to enjoy life. I thank the Lord for it. It is wonderful to be able to spend until the end for the sake of the Kingdom of God.
At the same time, I find great peace in thinking of the time that the Lord will call me: from life to life! So often I come to the lips, a hint of sadness, a priest recites the prayer after the Mass: In hours mortis meae voca me, et ad te venire IUBE me, at the hour of my death call me , and bid me come to you. It is the prayer of Christian hope, that nothing detracts from the joy of present time, it puts the future in the hands of the divine goodness.
18. "IUBE me venire ad te!: This is the deepest yearning of the human heart, even in those who are not aware of it.
Grant, Lord of life, grace vividly aware of this and enjoy as a gift filled with promise for the future every moment of our lives.
Make your will welcome you with love, catching every day in your merciful hands.
when the moment of "passing" definitive grant face it with courage serenity, without regret for what we leave behind. For in meeting you, after having sought you for so much, we find once more every authentic good here on earth, with those who have preceded us in the sign of faith and hope.
And you, Mary, Mother of pilgrim humanity, pray for us "now and at the hour of our death." Keep us ever close to Jesus, your beloved Son and our brother, the Lord of life and glory.
Amen
Vatican, October 1, 1999.
Vatican Press (1) S. John Damascene, Exposition of the Orthodox faith, 2, 29.
(2) See The Dignity of Older People and their Mission in the Church and the world, Vatican City 1998.
(3) VIRGILIO, " Fugit inreparabile tempus ", Geórgicas, III, 284.
(4) Liturgia de la Vigilia Pascual.
(5) S. IRENEO DE LYON, Adversus haereses, 4, 20, 4.
(6) Cf. Carta enc. Centesimus annus, 18.
(7) Cf. ibíd., 23.
(8) S. JUAN CRISOSTOMO, Comentario a la Carta a los Romanos, 9, 2.
(9) Cf. Cato maior seu De senectute, 19, 70.
(10) Sobre " Todo es vanidad y aflicción del espíritu ", 5-6.
(11) " Augest sapientiam, dat maturiora consilia ", Commentaria in Amos, II, prol.
(12) CORNEILLE, Sertorius, a. II, sc. 4, b. 717.
(13) " Magna fuit quondam capitis reverentia cani ", Fastos, lib. V, v. 57.
(14) Sentencias, XLII.
(15) Cf. Carta enc. Evangelium vitae, 65.
(16) C. K. NORWID, Nie tylko przystosc..., Post scriptum, I, vv. 1-4.
(17) " Levior fit senectus, eorum qui a iuventute coluntur et diliguntur ", Cato maior seu De senectute, 8, 26.
(18) Discurso al retorno del campo, 11.
(19) CONC. ECUM. VAT. II, Const. past. Gaudium et spes, 18.
(20) Misal Romano, Prefacio I de difuntos.
(21) Ibíd.
(22) Cf. S. FRANCISCO DE ASIS, Cántico de las criaturas.
(23) Carta a los Romanos, 7, 2.
