They are like trees planted in the house of the Lord, that flourish in the Temple of our God, that still bear fruit in old age and are always green and strong. — Psalm 92:13-14
This is written to my generation. We are known as “retired,” a designation our Western culture invented and has become enamored with (church included). I “retired” the first time at age 62. My idea was to see if God would allow me to do something else, and He did. Twelve years later at age 74, I “retired” again as a Senior Pastor of a wonderful church. During that time I also found out something I didn’t realize—that with God there’s no such thing as “retirement.” In fact, I searched and I couldn’t find a single retirement story, as we define the term, in the whole Book we believe in. So what was I supposed to do next?
The Apostle Paul told the Ephesian elders, “finish the race and complete the task.” That’s what we’re supposed to do! So God opened up several other ministries to which I was able to participate, even to this day and I’m now 85! What a mighty God we serve!
My 84-year old friend Bob Shero did even better because he didn’t believe in retirement either. He found himself in a wheel chair with limited mobility but rather than quit the race he became a prayer intercessor, par excellence. Bob recently passed away at 86 but just before he did, I called to see how he was doing. Before we ended our conversation he insisted that I join him in three urgent prayer requests among the three hundred for which he was currently praying. No earthly retirement in that guy or his sweet wife, Sharon!
Now unfortunately, some of our other older friends appear to have quit running. With all due respect, I must remind them and other “aging saints” that the race is not over until it’s over—and God has a way of letting us know when that is. He takes us home.
So my dear older friends, I want you to know that there are literally hundreds of Christian organizations today that could use your wisdom, experience, talent and yes, your checkbook, as they bring glory and honor to God through local ministries and those that reach around the world. Your local church is a great place to start (and you can even do it online). God’s gifts don’t run out with your age and He will use what He has given you to help others—even if it’s just a phone call to an ailing saint who needs encouragement.
So, if for some reason you’ve quit running—I urge you to get back in the race. It may be your last lap (only God knows for sure) but all that means is that the finish line is just up ahead and you’re about to receive the promised eternal prize (Philippians 3:14; 2 Timothy 4:8). Maranatha!
To help us walk closer with God and to know Him better
