N-O-W is the time for something NEW and EXCITING

It is often an assumption that older people are "right with God" – that their long life is evidence of His favor. While many older adults have vital relationships with a living God, many others do not. In the North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM) Call Center, we regularly take 400-500 calls each month and nearly 80% of the clients are unchurched. NCBAM Call Center Specialists connect North Carolina's frail aging (65+) with church volunteers who share God's love by meeting needs. Call Center team members serve spiritual needs by praying with callers and sharing the Gospel.

We believe God desires for everyone to begin a new life through a relationship with Jesus Christ, no matter their age. God changes lives and creates new creatures through His Son—in both the young and the aging.

I remember being in my mid-20s and having lunch with my grandfather at his home. He had just made his "famous cornbread" and I was really glad to have stopped by for a visit. We were sitting at the table while my grandmother was busy about the house and I asked, "Grandaddy, what is the most exciting thing you have seen in all your years?"

He thought for a moment, then proceeded to tell me about a man who arrived in his hometown nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. "He was riding a bicycle with a motor—we now know this to be a motorcycle—but for those of us in that community, it was the first time we had seen anyone on a bicycle with an engine." In my grandfather's time, this was a new and exciting day!

Aging adults face challenges every day: illness, the loss of loved ones and friends, and financial bumps in the road, to name a few. These changes bring feelings of vulnerability. In the midst of all of this, there is a stark reality of one's mortality— that the longer one lives, the closer one is to passing. Their world becomes one of uncertainty. For an older person without a relationship with Jesus Christ, salvation and peace are more urgent than ever.

NOW is the time for Jesus. The acronym N-O-W underscores the urgency and the hope—Now is the time to hear the Lord's knocking, Open the door, and Welcome Jesus Christ into one's life. In 2 Corinthians, Paul writes, "Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (6:2).

N – Nearness of the present time

The present moment is an unrepeatable gift. The door to salvation is ready to open. No matter one's past, today is the day to turn to Jesus Christ. The chaos in the world underscores that life is unpredictable—tomorrow is not guaranteed. The salvation offered through Jesus Christ provides peace and assurance that transcends circumstances. It is a gift of hope amid despair, offering a new and exciting future.

O – Overcome fear and uncertainty

The current world tensions evoke fears of suffering—and loss. In Jesus Christ, believers are offered a refuge—a source of peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Accepting Jesus Christ brings spiritual security that earthly circumstances cannot destroy. Salvation is not merely about escaping present difficulties, it is about securing a place in eternity with God. Accepting Jesus Christ ensures one's soul is anchored in a hope beyond this life.

W – Wait no longer

Procrastination can be dangerous, especially in times of crisis. Life's instability serves as a reminder that waiting leads only to missed opportunities. Revelation 3:20 depicts Jesus standing at the door and knocking, waiting for individuals to open their hearts.

What will you decide?

In these troubling times, especially amid conflicts, the message is clear: N-O-W is the time to be saved through Jesus Christ. The chaos and uncertainty should propel us to seek the stable and unchanging refuge—Jesus Christ.

The world may be shaking, but in Jesus Christ, believers find peace, hope, and eternal security. The decision to accept Jesus cannot be postponed. Embrace Him now and secure your eternity in the midst of troubling times.

Now Opens Wonderful possibilities for a life transformed and a future secured in Jesus Christ. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the NCBAM Call Center, Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm at 877-506-2226.

Written By Brian Roberts, NCBAM Call Center Director