Introduction

A year and a half ago as I was greeting people at the rear door of the sanctuary following worship one Sunday, I talked with a visitor to worship that day. Standing behind this visitor was Mabel Yark. Mabel is one of my favorite people; she's a favorite with many people. Now you need to know that I have the kind of relationship with Mabel that I could say this to the visitor that day. I introduced him to Mabel and I invited him to guess Mabel's age. I know Mabel would not be offended. He thought a moment then he said, "Maybe about 80." Mabel smiled and said, "On my next birthday I'm going to be 100!"

I thought to myself that was just wonderful. She didn't say, "I'm 99." She said, "I'm going to be 100." That's confidence.

Mabel is without question a cheerful and caring and a…