Maz Kanata is more than a thousand years old. As wise as she is old, but don't judge her by her size. Her experience and knowledge make up for her pint-size crude matter. Said experience is what has helped her survive the underworld and as long as she has.
Throughout the generations, she has seen galactic powers rise and fall and felt the Force come and go in her continuous search to find the balance between the dark and the light side of the Force.
From her castle on Takodana, she has given more than her fair share in ways of opportunities to weary and even, the illicit travelers. She has also helped an old friend or two find their way, guiding them down the right path.
Yes, Maz Kanata will help lead us down the pathway to 'The Last Jedi.'
Sources:
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: