Recently I have been impressed by the example of Art Linkletter. American Profile on November 26 featured a cover story by Paulette Cohn entitled, "Aging With Dignity: Art Linkletter is a model for growing old gracefully." He turned 94 last July. Famous from his television shows in the 50's and 60's he has co-authored his own new book on aging, "How To Make The Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life", with Mark Victor Hansen. Linkletter's life is an inspiration.

After having made his decision to end the relationship, he goes to bed that night. He dreams vividly about what Mary had told him. It seems that an angel of the Lord is speaking to him. He is addressed by his patronymic, 'son of David', reminding him of his royal lineage. The Messiah is supposed to come from his line. He is aware of the prophecies about a Savior who will come who will reign over the house of David forever.

That's true. Many Christians have stopped speaking of sin, judgment and the need for repentance. When they think of God they go straight for grace - forgiveness, maybe later. That's why the parable of the prodigal son is such a favorite. It assures us that no matter what we have done, our heavenly father always stands with arms wide open to receive us.

We live in a world where truth has lost its wholeness. It lies fractured and broken amidst us. Despite the best efforts of all the king's horses and all the king's men, no one assumes that Truth can ever, like humpty dumpty's fall from the wall, be put back together again.