We are looking at starting a new program for the women at Hillcrest called Apples of Gold.  It's based on Proverbs 25:11 that says, "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver." 

The format is a 6-week study that meets for 3 hours each week!  Crazy, but this is what happens.  You meet as a group and prepare dinner together.  The experienced teaching the less experienced.  While dinner cooks you go over the Bible study and then when you are finished you fellowship over the dinner you made!  How cool is that!  I'm really excited about the possibilities of sharing life with women across ages. 

I ordered some of their materials and in the mentors guide there is a poem I just had to share. I hope you hear the words in your hearts. I cried when I read this, knowing I too am called to serve those younger than me, and wanting those that are ahead of me to show me the way as well:

Young at Heart by Betty Huizenga

If you're among the young at heart,
there's work for you to do;
No time to waste -
the younger generation's calling you.
They seek and need your loving care,
advice and wisdom too,
because your hair is turning gray,
they'll listen well to you.

I pulled the covers higher,
and snuggled in my bed.
This time is mine, for things I like,
and books I haven't read.
I've worked so hard these many years,
as you can understand;
This time is now for me, Lord,
for long walks on the sand.

The kids are grown, my time's my own -
I've earned it fair and square,
and now I hear you calling me
Your kingdom work to share?

And then because I love you, Lord,
I read Your word and see
that never do you rest or sleep
and how You care for me.
I also read Your words that say,
"If you love Me, you will obey."
And, in pain I realize
I've followed my own way.

So eagerly I'll follow Lord,
Give me strength each day;
Give me wisdom, kindness, love,
Teach me what to say.
Help me pass the joy I've found
to those who follow after,
that they may learn to fill their lives
with joy and love and laughter.

And as I watch them grow in You
my spirit will revive;
And every day I'll thank you Lord,
for keeping me alive.