Rich in Years: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Long Life

In this gentle book, Christian elders are offered comfort, guidance, and hope for their last decades. Arnold, a noted Bruderhof pastor, peace activist, and author (Why Children Matter) in his eighth decade, addresses the unique challenges faced at this stage of life. “Growing old doesn’t have to be a prison of hopelessness and despair,” he writes. “All of us can find... meaning in our lives.” With faith in God, he argues, peace, joy, and new purpose are indeed possible, even in the face of devastating losses, mental decline, regrets, and loss of independence. Keen insights from friends, family, and others demonstrate that the passage of time can bring true wisdom to all, not only to famous spiritual leaders. Arnold emphasizes that cultivating love for others and generosity of spirit are essential to making one’s later years fulfilling. A welcome change from the flood of media attention on baby boomers uncomfortably hitting their mid-60s, this graceful field guide to life’s last journeys is deeply rooted in a love for Jesus and the Bible’s “good news.” (Nov.)