Many years ago, when men dominated the workforce, as their retirement years approached, they knew the “gold watch” and pat on the back were coming.  Retirement usually meant a farewell celebration, perhaps a bonus check and the gift of a gold watch.  At my retirement, I was given a fond farewell, a party and a crystal eagle with a plaque attached: In celebration of the many lives you have touched through teaching. Eagles Landing Middle School.

When you have worked and, for some, jumped through all the hoops of your career to move ahead and improve yourself, your family and your job status, you look forward to “the gold watch” retirement. Your efforts invested in your career/jobs will be acknowledged and you can enjoy, perhaps, a less stressful “ride” until the end of your days. How blessed are we, as Christians, to work at our faith, traverse through the valleys of struggle, rejoice for mountaintop blessings and look forward to more than a gold watch! We look forward to the “crown of life. James 1: 12 “Happy is the man who doesn’t give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him.” God’s grace is a gift.  God sacrificing His only Son for our sins, was a gift for our salvation. God’s unconditional love is a gift. Our heavenly gift will be the crown of life.

In the world of “work” one of our rewards can be retirement.  In our life as a Christian, how blessed are we to know heaven and the crown of life awaits us for our perseverance through trials.  Be at peace and find comfort in God’s promise. Your crown awaits you!

Jill