The other day, my wife, Annie, said: “You never retire from ministry.”  I wondered if that were true.  I thought of Pastor Roy, leading not just any church but one church after another through tough transitions, long after most folks are retired.  Pastor Wayne, Pastor Jack – all my “retired” Pastor friends, seem to be working as often as not. Maybe Annie is right. (Note to self: strike that last line. Annie is always right. I even have a tee shirt to remind me.)
At our last Lutheran Men in Mission meeting, we talked about the need to “change the guard,” to find new folks to fill positions for brothers who are “aging out” of the ability to do certain jobs. But, instead of emphasizing what we “can’t do” as well anymore, we focused on what we can do and on what’s important to us – sharing Christ, sharing our gifts of time, talent and treasure with the community and sharing fellowship. Even these retired men who are now retiring from some post-retirement duties are still very actively engaged in ministry at JOY and in the community.

So, what does the Bible say about retirement? Not much– at least, not much that I could find. The only direct reference is one God gives Moses about the Levites, Israel’s spiritual leaders. In Numbers 8:23-26, God says Levite men should start working in the Tent of Meeting when they turn 25 and retire from service at age 50. Sounds good so far! At 50, they are no longer to actively serve. Instead, they are to “assist their bothers in the tent of meeting in carrying out their duties…” So, when retired, they are to help the ones still working. Annie was indeed right.

Jesus does not say we have to serve alone. In fact, he directs us to get help, to “make disciples.” Just when we think we are too old, too tired, too busy, too otherwise occupied, Jesus asks us to look around, share in His compassion for all people living without him, without faith, hope, community, joy and go befriend them. Share your JOY with them. “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

Read Matthew 9:35-38, and remember: God loves you UNCONDITIONALLY.

Mike

Today’s Reading: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+9%3A35-38&version=NRSV