ElderCare

The classic words of Doyle Brunson were part of the opening of every Poker After Dark program on NBC: "We don't quit playing because we get old; we get old because we quit playing."

A large number of "older people" (we'd guess age 50 or higher) play in our poker circles. Some of them have played for a long time, so they deserve being treated with caution. To borrow an old phrase, you should "respect your elders" at the table.

But we've been asking in several posts about another group of elders. These apparently are in heaven....

Surrounding the throne were 24 other thrones, and seated on them were 24 elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. - Revelation 4:4

Who are these people? Well, believe it or not, we don't think they are people. Verse 2 indicates they're in heaven. And Someone who came down from heaven once said....

No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven - the Son of Man. - John 3:13

So if they aren't humans who were "taken to heaven," who (or what) are they? The Bible admittedly doesn't offer much guidance about them. But we're led to conclude they're angels - perhaps a special high rank of angels. Look at what they get to do:

And the 24 elders, who were seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God.... - Revelation 11:16

If this sounds dull and boring to you, consider this. They're at the throne of God - the One who created heaven and earth, and who is preparing a place for those who will believe in Jesus Christ!

In my father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. - John 14:2-3

The Bible indicates Jesus will come back to the area of Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:4) - stopping all rebellion and setting up the Kingdom of God on Earth. If that still doesn't interest you, consider this warning....

...That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:10-11

The Bible shows the worship of Jesus Christ will happen. Whether you like it or not. Wouldn't it be better to respect the "elder brother" and begin worshipping Him now?