If You Knew…Would it Make a Difference?

The world population is getting older. But what’s important is that different countries are aging at different speeds and in different ways.

If you knew that China’s workforce will start to shrink in 2015, would that change your view of international trade prospects and China’s economic future in the world?

If you knew China’s 65+ population is set to more than double, to over 200 million by 2030, would it make a difference in how you think about praying for that nation’s older citizens?

If you knew that Pakistan’s population will increase 50% by 2030, and that its growth in working-age population will likely be too fast to absorb, would that change your view of foreign policy and economic development, your perspective on Middle East politics, the transformational gospel of Jesus, and the spread of radical Islam?

If you knew other “youth bulge” countries include Afghanistan, Nigeria, Iraq, Haiti, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, would it change your assumptions of stability in these countries, the region as a whole, and your empathy and prayer concern for your Christian brothers and sisters, many of whom suffer severe persecution for their faith in these countries?

If you knew the number of 80 year olds in the US will almost triple by 2050, would this change your views on social security, long-term care and health care financing?

If you knew Europe and Asia were aging much more rapidly than the US in this postmodern culture, what significant results might be achieved through identifying, uniting, mentoring, and resourcing mature evangelical leaders to come alongside modern youth, young adult entrepreneurs and professionals to learn together and offer encouragement and prayerful support? Volunteer leaders are seeking to do this in Europe, for example, through the European Leadership Forum. What might we learn from their work that will replicate in North America?

The “how then shall we live” message of Jesus is just as relevant to this modern day as it has been to any and every past era. But to be true to the mandate of Jesus, we must be aware of and interpret significant cultural game-changers in the light of the Scriptures. Failing to do so will result in our making important decisions without complete information.

Climate, globalization, technology . . . and aging. These are four game-changers that are shaping our present and future world cultures. They will require our attention as we interpret the Scriptures and tell the story of Jesus to generations grown cynical of just about everything.

The realities of population age shifts happening in today’s world must be at the top of our awareness list. Greater understanding and new strategies in this regard will give Christian decision makers in the Church, the business, professional and political world a new perspective, and help frame a new set of questions.

As it is in life’s “first half,” so it remains in life’s second half. Having a clear view of what is happening in the world and a clear worldview in Scripture’s light has never been more important. If nothing special is found in later life, this could mean old age is nothing but “more of the same.” It will, unless fresh meaning and value is added in our lives with individual resolve and intentionality. Godly sages still are needed. Now more than ever.

If you knew . . . would it make a difference?